News Focus
- 1. FC Köln accepted a €50 million bid from Brentford FC for teenage talent Said El Mala
- The 19-year-old has rejected the move to the Premier League, stating it is “not the right step” for his development
- El Mala intends to wait for an offer from a more prestigious European giant
- The youngster scored 13 goals and provided five assists in 34 Bundesliga appearances last season
Said El Mala appeared poised to join Brentford FC earlier this week. German publication Bild reported that the Premier League club had submitted a €50 million offer which 1. FC Köln were prepared to sanction.
However, both Bild and Sky Germany now confirm the deal is off. The 19-year-old has decided against moving to the English top-flight side.
According to Bild, El Mala rejected the transfer because he feels it is “not the right step” for his career path. The teenage sensation prefers to wait for a proposal from a bigger European outfit.
This decision does not necessarily mean El Mala will remain at Köln beyond this summer. Sources suggest he is holding out for interest from a more illustrious club that he considers a better fit for his development.
El Mala enjoyed a standout campaign in the Bundesliga last season. The young attacker scored 13 goals and provided five assists in 34 matches for the Cologne-based side.