Brighton Intensifies Pursuit of Rising Star El Mala Amidst Bundesliga Tensions

omidbasir- Brighton & Hove Albion’s interest in El Mala is not new, having shown eagerness last summer. However, their pursuit has gained momentum due to his remarkable ascent this season.

In January, the Premier League side reportedly prepared to offer a package worth up to €30 million, which would have allowed the player to remain on loan in Germany for the remainder of the season. Nevertheless, Koln’s management, led by sporting director Thomas Kessler, firmly rejected the lucrative offer.

According to Sky Sport, Brighton’s initial bid in January was substantial, comprising a guaranteed transfer fee of approximately €25-26 million. The deal also included a 10 percent sell-on clause and a potential gross salary of up to €3.5 million per season for El Mala in the Premier League. In an interesting move, Brighton even proposed to sign his brother, Malek, who currently plays for Koln’s reserve team, but Kessler chose not to engage in negotiations to maintain squad harmony during their relegation battle.

Kessler has expressed a strong desire to retain the young talent, stating, “As a rule, I do not comment on speculation like that in detail. What matters to us is that Said has made very positive progress in a short time and has significantly contributed to our season so far with his performances. It is important for us to closely support him, provide him with stability, and take the next steps together so that he continues to help us in the second half of the season.”

Although the club publicly maintains its stance, El Mala’s situation in Cologne is becoming increasingly complicated. There are minor issues reported to have created tension between the player and head coach Lukas Kwasniok, including public remarks and limited starting opportunities. Despite netting seven goals and providing three assists this season, the winger has appeared as a substitute in 13 of his 22 Bundesliga matches, a role that has left him feeling frustrated and eager for a new challenge.

Regarding the player’s long-term commitment, Kessler noted that the club had strategically tied Said to a long-term contract extending until 2030 without a release clause. He remarked, “We deliberately tied Said to the club on a long-term basis before the season because we are convinced of his development and have a clear plan for him. At the same time, it is part of our business to deal with market-related matters. We approach this seriously and with the necessary calm. For us, the focus is on Said being an important part of our sporting concept, and we expect that he will continue his path with FC Koln.”

Despite the official bid, Brighton is pushing for a swift resolution, fearing El Mala’s price could soar to €40 million by summer. There is growing apprehension within the German club that even more lucrative offers could emerge in the next transfer window, particularly from domestic giants Bayern Munich, who are reportedly monitoring El Mala as a potential long-term backup for Luis Díaz. This necessitates rapid action from Brighton to secure the player.

The situation is poised for a dramatic conclusion this summer. Should El Mala’s playing time under Kwasniok not improve, the winger is likely to advocate for a transfer. Whether he heads to England or remains within the Bundesliga, it is evident that Koln’s resolve will once again be put to the test. Brighton has made its move, but with attention from some of the sport’s biggest clubs, the competition for one of Germany’s most promising talents is just beginning.