Brighton & Hove Albion are preparing a final attempt to sign winger Saïd El Mala from 1. FC Köln, according to a report in Sport Bild. The 19-year-old has been a subject of transfer speculation throughout the summer window, though a move to the Premier League has yet to materialize.
Brighton initially expressed interest in El Mala earlier in the window, but reportedly cooled their pursuit after Köln indicated they would not compromise on their €50 million valuation. Despite this, head coach Fabian Hürzeler is keen to make one last push to persuade the player to join the club.
El Mala has emerged as a promising talent in the Bundesliga, making 31 appearances for Köln across all competitions last season, scoring seven goals. His performances have attracted attention from several Premier League clubs, but the player and his family have previously turned down approaches from Newcastle United and Brentford, reportedly holding out for an opportunity at a club with greater European ambitions.
Negotiations remain complicated by Köln’s firm stance on their asking price. The club have shown no willingness to lower their €50 million demand, presenting a significant obstacle to any potential deal. Brighton would need to meet this valuation, even if Hürzeler is successful in convincing El Mala of a move to the Amex Stadium.
Should Brighton fail to secure a deal for El Mala, they will likely turn their attention to alternative targets in the wide positions. The addition of a dynamic winger remains a priority for Hürzeler as he looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
