RB Leipzig is reportedly one of several Bundesliga clubs, alongside Borussia Dortmund, Eintracht Frankfurt, VfB Stuttgart, and Bayern München, interested in a low-priced transfer for 1. FC Köln's 19-year-old German winger, Said El Mala. According to the 'Express', none of the interested parties are willing to pay much more than 40 million euros, while Köln is hoping for a fee exceeding 50 million euros. Brighton & Hove Albion has already withdrawn from discussions due to the high valuation. The 'Express' also notes a potential conflict, as El Mala's family reportedly prefers he stays in Germany, whereas Köln is seeking the highest possible fee, which is more likely to come from the Premier League. El Mala has 7 caps for Germany U21, is under contract until June 2030, and has a current Transfermarkt market value of €35.00m. He joined Köln from Viktoria Köln in July 2024 for a reported €300,000. A significant €45 million offer from Chelsea was reported in March 2026.