Tottenham Hotspur are planning to sign 19-year-old German winger Said El Mala from FC Köln during the upcoming summer transfer window.
According to TEAMtalk, Newcastle United are also keen on the youngster as they look to strengthen their attack this window.
However, the report suggests that Spurs are preparing to hijack any potential move, having already initiated discussions with the player’s camp.
There is even talk of a possible double deal that would include El Mala’s older brother, Malek. Köln, for their part, are expected to demand around €40 million to let the teenage talent leave.
So, who exactly is Said El Mala?
The Krefeld-born attacker has emerged as one of Germany’s most exciting young prospects. He developed through the youth systems of several clubs, including Linner SV, KFC Uerdingen, Borussia Mönchengladbach, TSV Meerbusch, and FC Viktoria Köln, before making his mark at Köln.
This season, he has enjoyed a true Bundesliga breakthrough, recording 13 goals and five assists in 34 appearances—form that has naturally drawn interest from a host of top sides.
Newcastle’s interest is easy to understand. With Anthony Gordon having departed for Barcelona, the Magpies are in urgent need of a dynamic wide player, and El Mala’s youthful energy and goal threat make him an appealing option.
Tottenham, meanwhile, have tracked him for some time. The club has yet to adequately fill the creative void left by Son Heung-min, and with Richarlison’s future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium looking increasingly uncertain, El Mala’s pace and directness could offer a much-needed attacking spark.
Interestingly, some reports have suggested that the player himself would prefer a move to Chelsea. Nevertheless, Tottenham have stolen a march on their rivals by opening formal talks, putting them in a stronger position to land the youngster. What remains to be seen, however, is whether Spurs are willing to meet Köln’s €40 million asking price to get the deal over the line.
