Köln chief addresses Said El Mala future after Brighton interest reports | OneFootball

1. FC Köln managing director for sport Thomas Kessler has addressed speculation over Said El Mala’s future after reports of Brighton & Hove Albion interest in the winter window, but declined to discuss claims a €25 to 30 million bid was rejected.

"As a rule, I do not comment on speculation like that in detail. What matters to us is that Said has made very positive progress in a short time and has contributed significantly to our season so far with his performances," he told Express.de.

"The 19-year-old attacker brings quality to the pitch week after week and has earned this attention through hard work."

"It is important for us to closely support him, provide him with stability, and take the next steps together so that he continues to help us in the second half of the season."

El Mala is under contract until 2030 with no release clause, leaving Köln in a strong negotiating position.

"We deliberately tied Said to the club on a long-term basis before the season because we are convinced of his development and have a clear plan for him. At the same time, it is part of our business to deal with market-related matters. We do this seriously and with the necessary calm."

"For us, the focus is on Said being an important part of our sporting concept, and we expect that he will continue his path with 1. FC Köln."

Source: BuLi News