Tottenham Hotspur have initiated discussions regarding a potential transfer for Cologne forward Said El Mala, aiming to fend off competition from Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk.
Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival at Tottenham has spurred significant activity in the transfer market, with deals for Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi already agreed upon, and a further £212 million triple transfer in progress. The pursuit of El Mala, a 19-year-old German Under-21 international, represents another ambitious move by the club.
Tottenham have been consistently monitoring El Mala’s progress throughout the 2025/26 campaign, and recently made contact with his representatives. Newcastle and Nottingham Forest had previously engaged in dialogue with the player, while Brentford’s interest waned due to complexities surrounding the potential deal earlier this summer.
El Mala has established himself as a promising talent in Germany, demonstrating pace, technical skill, and a goalscoring record of 27 goals in 81 senior appearances. He is viewed as a player capable of making an immediate impact in the Premier League. A unique aspect of the negotiation involves the player’s family, who are actively involved in the process and are seeking assurances that his older brother, 21-year-old Malek El Mala, also currently at Cologne, will be considered for a transfer.
This family dynamic has presented challenges for potential suitors, contributing to Brentford’s withdrawal from the race. However, there is optimism that a deal can be reached with Tottenham, despite these complications. The player is reportedly keen on a move to England, and clubs are exploring options to accommodate the request for both brothers to be transferred.
El Mala is currently valued in the region of €40 million (£34.5 million, $46 million). While most interested clubs are primarily focused on securing the younger El Mala, Tottenham are prepared to be more flexible. The coming weeks will be crucial as the player’s family assesses available opportunities, balancing personal development with the right club move.
Spurs are looking to bolster their attacking options, viewing El Mala as a versatile forward who can feature across the front line. De Zerbi is being heavily backed by the club’s ownership, who are determined to avoid another season of battling relegation. The transfer is expected to gain momentum as multiple clubs remain involved, with all parties motivated to find a resolution that facilitates El Mala’s progression.
