Chelsea have reportedly joined Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund in the race to sign Koln’s rising star Said El Mala. The 19-year-old winger, who only broke into the Bundesliga this season, has taken Germany by storm with his pace and dribbling skills, quickly turning into one of Europe’s hottest young talents.
Bundesliga breakout catching Europe’s eye
El Mala, who signed a long-term deal with Koln until 2030, has become one of the most talked-about young players in Europe. His pace and dribbling skills have made him a standout player on the Koln side. Scouts from England have been monitoring him closely, and reports that Chelsea are the latest club to show interest. Earlier, reports confirmed that Bayern Munich and Dortmund are also eyeing to sign the 19-year-old next summer.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportKoln want to hold El Mala for long-term
While European giants are eyeing to sign the German winger, Koln want to keep hold of their young star. Last summer, they rejected a written €14 million offer from Brighton, which was verbally raised to €20m (£17m/$23m). According to , the club might only consider bids around €50 million (£44m/$58m) range if El Mala continues to impress. With no release clause in his deal, the Bundesliga club are in full control and wants to take full advantage of his growing value.
El Mala shines in Bundesliga debut
Signed from Viktoria Koln in 2024, El Mala spent last season on loan back at his old club, scoring 13 goals in 32 appearances. Returning to Koln this year, he immediately impressed on the Bundesliga stage. His stunning solo goal against Hoffenheim and earlier strike versus Freiburg have made him one of the league’s most exciting young wingers.
Getty Images SportWhat's next for El Mala
With no release clause and rising interest from top clubs, El Mala is expected to be one of the biggest names in next summer’s transfer window. If he keeps performing like this, Koln will soon have to decide whether to cash in or hold on to their young rising star. For now, the young German winger’s focus remains on helping Koln climb the Bundesliga table, where they sit sixth with three wins from six games.
