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FC Köln have rebuffed interest from Manchester City in breakout winger Said El-Mala, with the Bundesliga club demanding well in excess of €50 million for the 19-year-old who has attracted attention from several Premier League sides this season.
Köln Set €50 Million-Plus Price Tag for Manchester City Target Said El-Mala
El-Mala has emerged as FC Köln’s standout performer this season, producing six goals and three assists in 15 league appearances. The teenage winger’s impressive form has attracted scouts from Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham, with all three Premier League clubs making contact with the player’s representatives during the current campaign.
Brighton previously attempted to sign El-Mala during the summer transfer window, but Köln successfully retained their prized asset. The German club’s vice-president Ulf Sobek has now made clear that any potential suitors will face a significant financial outlay to secure the teenager’s services, with the club valuing him at over €50 million.
Speaking to Express, Sobek explained Köln’s position regarding potential offers for El-Mala. “First, you have to find the right time for such a transfer,” he stated. “If we were to sell him now for €50 million, we’d have to pay a significant amount in taxes. So it’s not always just about the absolute value; you always have to think ahead.”
The Köln executive emphasised that the club’s preference remains keeping El-Mala for an extended period. “Ideally, though, I’d like Said to stay with us for a long time and bring us a lot of joy,” Sobek added. “If a player is worth €50 million, he wants a corresponding salary. Then you have to look at the club’s salary structure.”
El-Mala himself has publicly downplayed speculation about a January departure, stating his desire to remain in Cologne and continue his development in a stable environment. Köln’s firm stance on their valuation effectively rules out any immediate transfer, with the club drawing a clear line that this is not the appropriate time to sell their breakout star.
