Negotiations between 1.FC Köln and Borussia Dortmund for winger Said El Mala have been terminated, according to Geissblog, after Dortmund submitted a bid of €26 million plus up to €16 million in add-ons.
Köln swiftly rejected the offer, and club management have now declared discussions closed, reportedly due to dissatisfaction with Dortmund’s conduct during the process. The club is holding firm on a €50 million valuation for El Mala, and sources indicate Köln officials are unhappy with what they perceive as an attempt by Dortmund to directly influence the player to push for a move.
El Mala, 23, has been a key player for Köln since joining from Montpellier in 2021, contributing significantly to their attacking play with his pace and dribbling ability. Last season, he scored six Bundesliga goals and provided seven assists, establishing himself as one of the league’s emerging talents. His performances have naturally attracted interest from larger clubs, with Dortmund emerging as the frontrunners.
Despite Köln’s firm stance, the Express reports that speculation persists regarding El Mala’s potential move to Dortmund in the coming weeks. However, any resumption of talks would require a significant improvement in relations between the two Bundesliga clubs. Dortmund’s initial offer falls considerably short of Köln’s asking price, and the alleged attempt to circumvent proper negotiation protocols has further complicated matters.
This breakdown in negotiations highlights the challenges of player transfers within the Bundesliga, particularly when clubs are unwilling to compromise on valuation or perceived ethical boundaries. Should Dortmund revisit their approach with an increased offer and a more conciliatory tone, a transfer could still materialise, but currently, El Mala remains a Köln player, and the situation appears to be at an impasse. A successful transfer would provide Dortmund with a dynamic attacking option, while Köln would gain significant funds to reinvest in their squad.
