Liverpool join race to sign Cologne’s Said El Mala

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Said El Mala (19) scored 13 goals and provided five assists in 34 Bundesliga outings for Cologne in 2025/26, the German’s first season in top flight football. The teenager’s performances has attracted interest from the Premier League, and also earned him a maiden call up to the German national team.

Brighton were leading the race to sign El Mala but saw several approaches rebuffed, with Cologne valuing the 19-year-old at around €50m. Additionally, El Mala and his family vetoed a move to Brentford, which has paved the way for Europe’s top clubs to enter the race to sign the teenager.

Bild report that Borussia Dortmund are toying with the idea of offering €35m plus two loan deals – one being Almugera Kabar (20), which also include purchase options, but Cologne are standing firm on their valuation.

However, GEISSBLOGhave picked up Ben Jacobs ’ report that Liverpool have added El Mala to their shortlist. Should their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande hit a roadblock, El Mala is seen as an alternative for Andoni Iraola’s side.

El Mala has since returned from his vacation in Greece and has started fitness training while, per GEISSBLOG , there is no reason for further discussions with the player’s representatives as there are no offers on the table.

GGFN | Daniel Pinder