Transfer poker over DFB gem: Bayern’s plans for Said El Mala | OneFootball

FC Bayern continues to work on the future of its offensive squad—and has apparently set its sights on a new German top talent. According to consistent media reports, Said El Mala from 1. FC Köln is on Munich’s shortlist for next summer. The 19-year-old could potentially follow in the footsteps of Serge Gnabry in the long term, whose future with the German record champions remains uncertain.

With two goals and one assist in his first six Bundesliga matches, El Mala has quickly developed into one of the most exciting young players in German football. The U21 national player is considered an attacking all-rounder who can be deployed on both wings and in central attacking midfield. His pacey dribbling, direct approach to goal, and football intelligence have long since attracted the interest of top clubs—including in Munich.

Bayern wants to maintain a German core – El Mala on the shortlist

Photo: IMAGO

According to the pay-TV broadcaster Sky, Bayern scouts have observed El Mala several times in recent weeks. BILD football chief Christian Falk also confirmed the record champion’s interest: “Bayern is always striving to build a core of many German players, and El Mala is on the shortlist for the next transfer window in summer 2026,” explains Falk.

However, according to BILD, there have not yet been any concrete talks behind the scenes. Sporting director Max Eberl and sporting director Christoph Freund are closely monitoring the development of the attacking talent, but first want to wait and see how the Serge Gnabry situation unfolds.

Gnabry’s future will decide Bayern’s plans

Gnabry is in strong form this season, having already scored three goals and provided four assists in ten competitive matches. After a difficult previous season, the 30-year-old is once again playing with joy and efficiency—thus also influencing his own future.

His contract with FC Bayern runs until summer 2026. Just a few months ago, a departure seemed likely, but in the meantime, Bayern’s bosses have signaled their willingness to talk. According to BILD a possible contract extension is, however, tied to a significant salary reduction. As a winger, he is one of the top earners in the squad, with an annual salary of around 17 million euros.

Photo: IMAGO

If no agreement is reached, El Mala could become a hot option. The Cologne shooting star is not only eleven years younger, but also significantly cheaper financially—even if his transfer fee would be considerable.

Köln demands up to 35 million euros

According to Sky, 1. FC Köln is hoping for a transfer fee in the region of 35 million euros if El Mala leaves the club in summer 2026. The Bundesliga club is said to have already rejected a 20 million euro offer from Brighton & Hove Albion last summer.

For FC Bayern, El Mala would be an investment in the future—a young, developing player with a German passport and international potential. Borussia Dortmund is also said to be showing strong interest according to Sky, and is monitoring the situation just as closely as the Munich club.

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