By Rune Gjerulff@runegjerulff

Brighton leading race for El Mala – but Chelsea "won't give up"

As reported by Bild head of football Christian Falk, Brighton & Hove Albion are leading the race to sign 1. FC Köln's Said El Mala, but Chelsea remain on alert.

Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images

Having been linked with 1. FC Köln’s Said El Mala for many months, Brighton & Hove Albion are in pole position to sign the promising attacker in the summer, according to Bild football chief Christian Falk.

However, Brighton and Köln have yet to find common ground on a transfer fee, with an offer of €35 million plus €4 million in add-ons not enough to convince the Billy Goats, who are reportedly holding out for €50 million.

If this remains the case, 1. FC Köln could turn to Chelsea for talks, as they look to secure the best possible deal for their young star, who appears increasingly likely to move to England this summer.

Newcastle United are also said to be monitoring the young German attacker.

El Mala left his future at Köln open last week, telling DAZN:

“I feel good. I can’t say what will happen.

“I still have five games to go (this season). And I’ll give everything. We have confidential talks with [sporting managing director] Thomas Kessler and are open and honest with each other. We still have a few games left that are extremely important for the club. When the time comes, something will be sorted out."