Brighton have been trying to get talks moving for Said El Mala for weeks, but they keep running into the same problem — Köln are simply not interested in engaging.
The Premier League side have made repeated attempts to open negotiations, yet the German club continue to shut the door.
Brighton efforts for Said El Mala being blocked
According to reports in Germany, Brighton have been pushing to arrange a meeting in Cologne for nearly a month.
It has gone nowhere.
Köln have consistently refused to enter discussions, despite Brighton’s long-standing interest in the 19-year-old forward. The situation has barely moved, even with continued contact from the English side.
From the outside, it looks less like slow negotiations and more like one club trying to force something that the other does not want right now.
Gap in valuation creating major obstacle
The issue is not just timing, it is also money.
Brighton are believed to value El Mala at around €35m, while Köln are holding out for something closer to €50m. That gap has made it easy for the Bundesliga side to stand firm.
| Detail | Said El Mala |
|---|---|
| Club | 1. FC Köln |
| Age | 19 |
| Brighton valuation | ~€35m |
| Köln expectation | ~€50m |
source: German reports – 8 April 2026
Having followed Brighton’s recruitment approach in recent seasons, they are usually patient in negotiations. This situation feels different.
However, it remains too early to say whether they will increase their offer or walk away.
Köln make their stance clear
Sporting director Thomas Kessler has now addressed the situation directly, and his comments leave little room for interpretation.
“As of now, we have not received any offers that we need to seriously consider.” — Thomas Kessler
He also stressed that the player himself is not pushing for a move.
“The player has made it clear his focus is on Köln and the season.” — Thomas Kessler
That combination, no acceptable offer and no pressure from the player, gives Köln full control.
Timing also working against Brighton
Köln’s position in the table is another key factor.
They are still focused on securing their Bundesliga status, which means transfers are not a priority right now. Any negotiations are likely to be delayed until their situation is clearer.
From the last few weeks of their campaign, survival remains the focus, and that naturally pushes transfer discussions into the background.
Key Insights
- Brighton have been trying for weeks to open talks for Said El Mala
- Köln have repeatedly blocked attempts to negotiate
- There is a major gap between the two clubs’ valuations
- The player is not pushing for a move
- Köln are focused on their relegation battle
What’s next for Brighton?
Brighton will need to decide whether to keep pushing or step back and reassess their approach. A renewed attempt later in the summer could depend on Köln’s league position and willingness to sell.
For now, there is no indication that talks will progress in the short term.
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