ManCity joins the El Mala poker: Bayern planning clever transfer move | OneFootball

FC Bayern is keeping a close eye on one of Germany’s most sought-after talents. Said El Mala from 1. FC Köln is in the sights of numerous top clubs – including Manchester City and Manchester United. However, the German record champions are not willing to stand by without a fight and, according to the BILD podcast„Bayern Insider“, have already secured a strategic matching right with the Cologne club.

As BILD head of football Christian Falk reports, the interest from England is already very concrete: „Manchester City are interested in Said El Mala – I’ve heard that from a very good source,“ said Falk in the podcast.

Manchester United are also said to have the 19-year-old attacking player on their radar, but according to Falk, City are currently the favourites in the race to sign the Cologne jewel.

FC Bayern, on the other hand, are observing the situation with a steady hand. As Tobi Altschäffl explains, the Munich club have secured their position in Cologne: „Bayern have already made a deposit with Cologne: If a club contacts us, please let us know immediately. It’s like a gentleman’s agreement, so to speak – a verbal matching right.“

With this agreement, Munich can react in an emergency as soon as Cologne receive an official offer – without plunging into an expensive bidding war at an early stage.

El Mala: The new attacking jewel of the Bundesliga

Photo: IMAGO/DeFodi Images

Said El Mala is regarded as one of Germany’s greatest attacking talents. The U21 international has attracted attention this season with his dynamism, courage and wit – and his style of play is reminiscent of Jamal Musiala or Florian Wirtz.

The 19-year-old has everything that modern top clubs are looking for: Dribbling strength, pace, creativity and a feel for dangerous spaces. For 1. FC Köln, El Mala has long been more than just a young player – he is their most valuable jewel.

According to reports, the promoted club is asking for a transfer fee of €50 to €60 million if a move in the summer of 2026 is even on the table. A transfer in the winter has been ruled out, according to Sky.

Bayern remains strategic – no bidding war

FC Bayern are aware of the player’s quality, but are deliberately being patient. Within FCB, El Mala is seen as a player for the future, not as an immediate solution.

Coach Vincent Kompany is said to have had the attacking player on his radar for some time because he fits Munich’s requirements profile perfectly: young, technically strong, capable of development and with a clear attacking drive. „He’s highly rated, but Bayern won’t rush into anything,“ says Falk, summarising the situation.