Köln president Stobbe insists Said El Mala is not for sale amid Premier League interest
1. FC Köln president Jörn Stobbe has publicly stated the club's intention to retain star winger Said El Mala this summer, despite significant interest from Premier League sides Chelsea and Brighton & Hove Albion. Stobbe confirmed that Köln will present the player with a new offer and emphasized that the Bundesliga club is under no financial pressure to sell. The comments, made on the podcast L'Immo, represent a firm stance from the Cologne hierarchy as the transfer window approaches.
Stobbe outlined the club's position clearly, stating that Köln will make El Mala an offer supported by their network, extending beyond purely financial terms. He pointed to the player's contractual situation as the foundation of their strong negotiating position. Said El Mala is under contract with the club until 2030, and crucially, that agreement does not contain a release clause. This gives Köln full control over any potential transfer discussions.
"He has a long-term contract. We'd be crazy to let such a great player leave prematurely," Stobbe told the podcast, according to a translation of his remarks. This sentiment is supported by a report from Geissblog, which indicates that Köln's financial health does not necessitate the sale of their prized asset in the upcoming window. The club's stable position allows them to set a prohibitive asking price for any suitor.
That price is reported to be in the region of €50 million, a significant valuation for the 22-year-old. El Mala has enjoyed a breakout season in the Bundesliga, contributing eleven goals and four assists from his position on the left wing. His direct running, creativity, and goal threat have made him one of the most watched young talents in Germany, inevitably attracting the attention of wealthier clubs abroad.
While Stobbe's comments are a clear signal of intent to keep the player, the situation remains fluid. The interest from Chelsea and Brighton is persistent, and the substantial fee being quoted suggests Köln are aware a sale could still materialize if their valuation is met. For the player, the prospect of a move to the Premier League represents a major step, but he remains a key figure for a Köln side that will be eager to build their team around his talents. The coming weeks will determine whether the club's firm stance deters his admirers or merely sets the stage for a protracted negotiation.
