1. FC Köln have rejected an initial approach from Borussia Dortmund for striker Said El Mala, dismissing an offer structured at €26 million fixed plus €16 million in add-ons. The German club’s sporting leadership reportedly viewed the proposal as insufficient to warrant serious negotiation.
Bid Details and Valuation Gap
According to Sky Sports, the Black and Yellows’ package included performance-related bonuses that failed to convince Thomas Kessler. While €8 million of the additional payments was deemed realistically achievable, the remaining €8 million was considered unlikely to materialise. This assessment left the Köln boss irritated by the overall valuation.
The Billy Goats maintain an uncompromising stance. Sources indicate they will not reopen discussions unless an interested party meets their €50 million asking price for the 19-year-old forward. This represents a significant gap from the €42 million maximum potential value of Dortmund’s rejected bid.
Rapid Rise and Selective Approach
El Mala has emerged as one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting young talents. The striker scored 13 goals in Germany’s top flight during his debut professional season, quickly attracting attention from major clubs across Europe.
His potential transfer to Signal Iduna Park would represent a major career progression. Yet the teenager has already shown careful consideration regarding his future. Earlier in the current transfer window, he declined a move to English Premier League club Brentford despite advanced negotiations between the clubs.
Negotiation Standpoint
Dortmund must now decide whether to return with an improved offer that satisfies Köln’s financial demands or redirect their search elsewhere. With El Mala contracted and Köln under no pressure to sell, any successful deal would require the prospective buyer to meet the €50 million valuation outright.
The coming weeks will test Dortmund’s resolve as they weigh the investment against the striker’s proven goal-scoring record at the highest domestic level. For Köln, retaining their attacking talisman represents a priority as they aim to build upon last season’s performances, while a substantial offer at the €50 million mark could prove too significant to ignore.