80 million euros ready: Next bidding war for Cologne's Said El Mala
After a turbulent summer, 1. FC Cologne faces another bidding war for the 20‑year‑old striker Said El Mala in the upcoming winter window (January 1 to February 1). The €80 million are available for the next bidding for Cologne's Said El Mala, with Sport reporting that Paris Saint‑Germain has already signaled interest.
Winter Interest and Possible Transfer Fee
The 20‑year‑old El Mala surprisingly extended his contract until 2031 only a few months ago. However, the new deal contains no release clause, meaning a sale can only happen through negotiations. As Sport reports, the Geißböcke will have to fight again for El Mala's stay in the upcoming transfer window (January 1 to February 1). A top club has also already reached out for the exceptional talent. PSG need to compensate for the months‑long absence of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who suffered an ACL rupture at the end of October and could miss the rest of the season.
Sport reports that Paris Saint‑Germain has already officially approached FC boss Thomas Kessler about El Mala. However, an official offer has not yet been received at the Geißbockheim.
Kessler's Stance and Further Market Rumours
Kessler emphasized that nothing in football should be categorically ruled out and that El Mala did not extend his contract without reason. Therefore, he currently sees no reason to consider a possible winter move and added that El Mala feels “very comfortable” in Cologne. Nevertheless, Sport says a winter bidding war cannot be ruled out. The €50 million pain threshold set in the summer, which even Borussia Dortmund had already failed to meet, is no longer sufficient for a winter sale.
Significantly more money would have to flow to the Rhine to persuade the club to sell, though exact new price expectations were not disclosed. PSG would hardly shy away from a transfer attempt, and the English Premier League also shows interest, with Brighton & Hove Albion reportedly reaffirming its interest according to Sky. Cologne plans to keep the dribbling‑strong striker at least until the summer.
Besides El Mala, his brother Malek is also in focus, as coach Fabian Hürzeler's side had already tried to sign both brothers in the previous season. Malek celebrated his first Bundesliga goal for the Geißböcke last weekend. Brighton continues to monitor the brothers closely and regularly sends scouts to Cologne. A winter move is not currently planned, but could change if another club shows serious interest around the turn of the year.