Chelsea are prepared to invest €80 million into signing talented FC Koln winger Said El Mala, but they face competition for his signature.
According to Fichajes, Chelsea are determined to get a deal for Said El Mala in place ahead of the summer and are willing to invest €80 million to sign the winger. The West London club will face competition for the 19-year-old Bundesliga prodigy, with Brighton reportedly holding a key position in the race as things stand.
Said El Mala has emerged as one of the most talented attackers out of Germany this season, as he continues to shine for his club FC Koln. The winger has scored or assisted 13 times this term, which has attracted several top-level clubs towards his signature.
He remained committed back in January, but the summer transfer window could open new avenues that may force the player to reconsider his future at Koln. Teams like Chelsea, Barcelona, and Manchester United have all been interested recently, with the Blues now pushing to get a deal in place.
Chelsea were reportedly preparing an offer, and it appears they are willing to commit around €80 million on the player, including his salary. The report breaks down the €80 million figure to €45 million in transfer fees and the remaining €35 million as El Mala’s salary over the course of the next seven years.
It could be a case of another player arriving at Stamford Bridge on a long-term deal, as has been the case with many recent recruits. Chelsea are eager to bring in the 19-year-old prodigy, who could offer a dynamic presence on the left-hand side of their attack, which has been somewhat problematic.
Chelsea to face competition?
Brighton & Hove Albion are one of the clubs interested in Said El Mala, and they reportedly hold a key position in the chase, as they are also willing to sign his brother, Malek El Mala. Moreover, the Seagulls are seemingly guaranteeing a prominent role for El Mala in their side, which could work in their favour in the race for the 19-year-old German sensation.
However, the appeal of Chelsea could prove telling, as El Mala may make a key decision over his future in the summer. Much will depend on FC Koln’s asking price, which might be steep if they see competition increase as the summer window approaches, but at the moment, the figures Chelsea are willing to invest might be in line with his market value.