Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund are both interested in Köln wonderkid Said El Mala, but the Bundesliga side remain determined to hold out for their €50 million asking price.
Said El Mala’s future is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the summer, with Tottenham Hotspur and Borussia Dortmund both emerging as serious contenders for the highly-rated 1. FC Köln youngster.
The 19-year-old attacker enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in the Bundesliga and has quickly become one of the most sought-after young talents in Germany.
His performances have attracted attention from several clubs across Europe, with Premier League interest growing in recent weeks.
🚨🆕 #FCKöln 🇩🇪
Tottenham have made a formal move for Köln winger Saïd El Mala!👀 Inter, Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Brighton, Barcelona & PSG monitoring.
📌 Bayern Munich hold first-refusal rights, see him as cost-effective solution. pic.twitter.com/ToLbebm8ro
— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) February 27, 2026
According to reports from Germany, Tottenham are considering a move for El Mala after the player previously turned down the chance to join Brentford.
Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi is said to be a strong admirer of the teenager after receiving glowing scouting reports.
El Mala’s impressive numbers last season explain the growing excitement around him. The versatile attacker registered 13 goals and five assists in 36 appearances, establishing himself as one of Köln’s standout performers despite his young age.
Köln, however, are in no rush to sell. The Bundesliga side have reportedly placed a €50 million valuation on their prized asset and remain confident that interested clubs will have to meet that figure if they want to secure his signature.
While Tottenham continue to monitor the situation, Borussia Dortmund are also exploring a move. Reports suggest Dortmund preparing a proposal that would include a €30 million fixed fee, an additional €5 million in bonuses, and a future sell-on clause.
Dortmund’s ability to complete such a deal may depend on player sales. The club are reportedly considering cashing in on Karim Adeyemi this summer, which could provide the financial flexibility needed to pursue El Mala.
Even then, there are doubts over whether Köln would accept a package that falls short of their stated valuation.
For now, El Mala has not been given a deadline to make a decision on his future, leaving the door open for further developments.
With Tottenham and Dortmund both circling and Köln refusing to lower their demands, the battle for one of Germany’s brightest young stars could intensify significantly in the coming weeks.
