According to 'kicker', 1. FC Köln is demanding a transfer fee of at least 50 million euros, and Hoffenheim must achieve a transfer surplus despite qualifying for the Europa League. This is reportedly a factor working against a transfer.

Said El Mala, a 19-year-old German winger from 1. FC Köln, has reportedly drawn interest from TSG Hoffenheim. In response to an 'Express' report on the matter, TSG Hoffenheim described the information as being a transfer canard. This follows two previously failed moves to England for the player, with both Brighton & Hove Albion and FC Brentford having shown concrete interest before El Mala's camp ultimately rejected a transfer. The German U21 international has a contract until 2030. He scored 13 goals and provided 5 assists in 34 Bundesliga appearances during the 2025/2026 season. The asking price for the player from 1. FC Köln is 50 million euros, while Transfermarkt estimates his current market value at €45.00m. In June 2026, Brentford reportedly made an offer of a €50 million package, which Köln was prepared to accept before the player's side declined.