FC Köln hold firm as Dortmund’s €45m bid for Said El Mala stalls

FC Köln have rejected Borussia Dortmund’s second bid for 19‑year‑old Germany international Said El Mala, a proposal that includes a base fee just under €40 million with performance‑related bonuses that could lift the total to around €45 million. The Cologne club insists on a minimum €50 million, leaving Dortmund’s offer short of its valuation.

The new offer represents a considerable step up from Dortmund’s initial attempt. Sport reported the first proposal at €34 million plus €6 million in bonuses.

Sky Germany had earlier described the first bid as roughly €26 million guaranteed with an additional €16 million in add‑ons. Those figures underline how the latest proposal has risen.

Sky Germany reporter Patrick Berger confirmed that Dortmund’s second offer contained a base transfer fee of just under €40 million, with potential bonuses lifting the overall package to approximately €45 million. His report provides the same details cited by Cologne.

FC Köln rejected the bid and reiterated their demand for at least €50 million for the 19‑year‑old. The club underscored the widening financial gap they seek to close with their cathedral‑city rivals.

Borussia Dortmund has significantly increased the guaranteed portion of their offer compared with the earlier proposal. The move reflects their determination to bridge the gap with Cologne.

Said El Mala has reportedly signalled a clear willingness to join Dortmund. He continues to conduct himself professionally and has not attempted to force a departure.

Whether Borussia Dortmund will return with another improved offer remains to be seen. Negotiations are expected to continue while both clubs assess their positions.