Brighton’s Mega Bid Blocked as Bundesliga Wonderkid Declared “Un-Sellable” – Seagulls Stunned by Transfer Twist!
Brighton & Hove Albion are encountering serious obstacles in their pursuit of German teenage sensation Said El Mala, with FC Köln reportedly standing firm on their stance that the young talent is “un-sellable.”
According to German outlet Express, the Premier League side are weighing up a significant offer—believed to be in the double-digit millions—in a bid to lure the highly-rated Germany U19 international to the south coast.
El Mala, currently valued at €3 million, is seen as a future star, with former Köln sporting director Christian Keller even predicting he could become the most lucrative departure in the club’s history.
New Köln head coach Lukas Kwasniok echoed that sentiment, recounting how El Mala once dismantled his Paderborn side’s right-back during a friendly against Viktoria Köln’s youth team—a moment that left a lasting impression.
“I didn’t know him before, but after that match, I thought: wow, this boy has something special,” Kwasniok remarked, adding that the club intends to nurture and protect his growth.
Köln acquired both Said and his brother Malik from Viktoria Köln last summer, sending them back on loan to continue their development.
Since then, Said’s performances in the 3. Liga and with Germany’s youth national team have skyrocketed his profile and market worth.
Brighton—already home to German U21 star Brajan Gruda and ex-St. Pauli coach Fabian Hürzeler—are considered a strong contender for the 18-year-old’s signature.
However, interest in El Mala is heating up across Germany and Europe, with several clubs reportedly tabling bids.
Köln-based outlet *Geißblog* has corroborated Brighton’s interest but reaffirmed the club’s firm position: Said El Mala is not for sale, at least not yet.