According to German outlet ImageManchester United are among the clubs interested in signing Köln winger Said El Mala.
The 19-year-old signed for Viktoria Köln’s Bundesliga side in the summer of 2024, but was loaned back for the 2024/25 season due to a transfer ban.
El Mala has made a big impression during its debut season. He has already scored six goals and three assists in sixteen appearances in the German top flight.
His performances have caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs Image claim Man United are among his candidates alongside Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City.
A winter deal is not possible, but a stay after the summer is considered unlikely. Koln is said to be eyeing £52 million.
Top talent
The Germany youth international was a relatively unknown figure but his reputation has soared after a good start to the Bundesliga campaign with Köln.
He has been directly involved in nine goals for the promoted team, despite playing just 678 minutes so far. Koln is ready to keep him this season to avoid relegation.
United are one of the teams keeping an eye on him and he could be a good signing given his huge potential and versatility on the pitch.
He played a lot from the left side of Köln’s attack, but saw little action as a main striker. He also acted as an attacking midfielder for Viktoria in the past.
Despite having a dominant presence at 187cm, El Mala stands out for his quick dribbling skills and his ability to get behind the defense with his good ball-carrying ability.
He would fit perfectly into manager Ruben Amorim’s plans at United and could be seen as a substitute for Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo in attacking midfield.
El Mala has shown he can operate on his own merits and would provide a different solution alongside Benjamin Sesko, who is still adapting to the Premier League.
A mid-season move seems out of the question and United may still want to be proactive to avoid missing out on his services.
They could negotiate a pre-transfer deal before the summer, although the club are unlikely to pay anywhere near the clause and may want a cut from Köln for the forward.
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