Leaving Cologne? BVB target El Mala sets the record straight | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund shows increased interest in Cologne’s shooting star Said El Mala. The 19-year-old now speaks for the first time about his future and brings clarity.

Said El Mala has addressed the transfer rumors about himself for the first time—and has given 1. FC Köln a clear commitment, at least for the winter. The 19-year-old, who has become one of the Bundesliga’s most sought-after attacking talents after his meteoric rise from the 3rd division, made it clear at Geißbockheim that a departure in the upcoming transfer window is not an issue. When asked if he would stay at FC beyond the winter, he answered with a clear “Yes.”

While El Mala currently sees his future in Cologne, speculation about potential suitors continues to pick up steam. In addition to Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund is also repeatedly mentioned.

BVB managing director Lars Ricken recently expressed his admiration to Bild Sport: “First of all, you have to say that he is really making great progress. Besides the goalkeeper, he was the best Cologne player.” He added: “Of course, we observe players in this age group extremely closely. We will keep an eye on this market and monitor Said’s development.”

BVB hot for El Mala – Cologne jewel sends a clear signal

El Mala himself remains unfazed by all this. “It’s normal that, as a young player with a few scorer points in the Bundesliga, several clubs come knocking. I notice it, but it doesn’t affect me,” said the attacker.

His contract in Cologne runs long-term until 2030, and does not include a release clause. Internally, a possible sale will not be discussed before the summer—and likely only for a significant transfer fee. Brighton reportedly already offered around 20 million euros in the summer, and the price is likely much higher now.

On the pitch, the attacking player continues to develop rapidly. Five goals this season and several assists already make him one of FC’s most important players. At the same time, El Mala dreams long-term of the biggest stages in football: “Everyone wants to play in the Champions League. Everyone wants to play for the biggest clubs,” he emphasized.

One thing is certain: El Mala will stay in Cologne this winter. But after the statements from Dortmund and the growing interest from major clubs, the discussion about his future is likely to pick up again by the summer at the latest.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.