Tottenham Hotspur are poised to make a bid for 1. FC Köln forward Said El Mala, according to reports in Germany. Sport Bild claims that Spurs are seriously considering a move for the 19-year-old attacker, following a breakout season in the Bundesliga.
El Mala enjoyed a productive 2025/26 campaign, scoring 13 goals and providing five assists in 36 appearances for Köln. His performances have attracted attention from the Premier League, with Brentford FC previously submitting a bid that matched Köln’s valuation of around €50 million. However, the player reportedly rejected the opportunity to join the Bees.
The rejection of Brentford’s offer has opened the door for Tottenham, with head coach Roberto De Zerbi believed to be particularly impressed with scouting reports on El Mala. De Zerbi, appointed earlier this year, is expected to oversee a squad overhaul at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and El Mala appears to fit the profile of a young, dynamic forward the Italian coach is seeking.
Köln are currently allowing El Mala time to consider his options, without imposing a strict deadline for a decision. The club’s willingness to negotiate suggests they are prepared to sell if their valuation is met. El Mala joined Köln’s youth academy in 2022 and quickly progressed through the ranks, making his first-team debut in 2024. He has since become a key player for the club, establishing himself as one of the Bundesliga’s most promising young talents.
Should El Mala arrive in North London, he would likely compete with existing forwards for a place in De Zerbi’s starting eleven. The potential signing signals Tottenham’s intent to invest in young players and build a competitive squad capable of challenging for European qualification. The move could also provide much-needed attacking depth for Spurs, particularly if other forwards depart during the transfer window.
