Report: Brighton submit offer to sign Bundesliga forward | OneFootball

Brighton Submit Offer for Said El Mala

Brighton have identified Said El Mala as a priority summer target, with Florian Plettenberg reporting that a written offer was submitted in January. The proposal was worth up to €30 million, plus a 10 per cent sell on clause, for the 19 year old winger.

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Köln have resisted firmly. Sporting director Thomas Kessler rejected the approach, viewing El Mala as central to their push to avoid relegation. With a contract running until 2030 and no release clause, the German club hold a strong negotiating position.

Summer Move Remains Possible

Brighton remain keen ahead of the next window. Their model favours early identification of emerging talent, and El Mala fits that profile. FC Bayern are also monitoring him as a potential back up option for Luis Diaz, adding a layer of competition to any future pursuit.

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For now, Köln’s stance is clear. Brighton’s interest, however, has not diminished.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Brighton, this feels entirely on brand. Targeting a 19 year old described as a “shooting star” reflects the club’s recruitment philosophy under Tony Bloom. The willingness to table up to €30 million, plus a 10 per cent sell on clause, signals genuine intent rather than tentative interest.

There is frustration in seeing Köln reject the move, particularly given the player’s long contract until 2030 and absence of a release clause. That places control firmly in Germany. Yet Brighton have rarely been deterred by an initial setback. Their approach is strategic and patient.

Competition from FC Bayern, even as a back up option for Luis Diaz, underlines the calibre of talent being pursued. If Bayern are watching, Brighton supporters can take confidence in the scouting judgement.

The key question is timing. A summer push may require an improved offer and careful negotiation. For Brighton fans, the appeal is obvious. Young, dynamic wingers have thrived on the south coast before. If El Mala is next in that line, the groundwork already appears to be in place.