Said El Mala: Everton and Fulham likely to enter bidding – Newcastle United sent away

Brighton and Hove Albion’s pursuit of FC Köln forward Said El Mala is stalling, with Everton and Fulham ‘likely to enter the bidding’ for the 19-year-old, and Newcastle United sent away.

Sport BILD report on the winger today and how Köln are keeping Brighton at arm’s length and waiting for other suitors to come forwards.

According to their information, Brighton have offered €35m plus €5m to sign El Mala ahead of the summer. Cologne, though, are refusing to budge from a €50m minimum valuation.

For now, no agreement is in sight and Brighton’s patience is being tested. Talks are taking place behind the scenes. 

Big transfer desired 

Inside Köln, the stance is clear. Said El Mala’s sale next summer is already baked into the club’s financial planning.

Sporting director Thomas Kessler and Tim Steidten are maintaining active contact with clubs and agents across England. They know that selling El Mala is essential to fund the next phase of their squad planning.

Chelsea have shown interest but are yet to submit a formal bid. Newcastle United attempted to open talks, but they were rebuffed by the player’s entourage. They, reportedly, indicated a preference for Brighton.

El Mala camp sending mixed signals

While Said El Mala’s family have told Newcastle that they are leaning towards Brighton, the situation is more nuanced behind the scenes.

In discussions with Köln, El Mala’s mother Sabrina, who is now representing him, has made it clear she is open to other clubs. That’s even if Brighton is the preferred destination.

The family will only consider Brighton’s offer after the Premier League reaches an agreement with Köln over a transfer fee. There is no pressure being applied on the German side. That stance keeps the door open for new bidders.

Everton and Fulham expected

While Brighton are unable to close the gap, other Premier League clubs are preparing to move. Everton, Brentford and Fulham are considered as potential suitors.

The feeling is that they are ‘likely to enter the bidding’ for El Mala at some point. That could certainly happen is the current stalemate continues.

Köln are in no rush. They have El Mala tied to a deal until 2030 and that does not include a release clause. El Mala is considered a rare long-term asset, and they want a top fee for him.

A transfer saga set to run on

Brighton remain in pole position in terms of the player’s preference, but their reluctance to pay €50m has created an opening.

Everton, Fulham and Brentford are now lurking in the background as a result. Chelsea are still hovering too, while Newcastle could even make a second attempt despite being rejected.

The battle for Said El Mala appears to just be starting. His agents are certainly leaving the door open to anything, despite the apparent preference for Brighton among his representatives.