Manchester United Join Liverpool and Chelsea in Race for Köln’s Young Star Said El Mala
Manchester United are gearing up for a fierce transfer battle with Premier League rivals Liverpool and Chelsea to sign 19-year-old sensation Said El Mala from FC Köln in the summer 2026 transfer window. The German-born winger has been one of the breakout stars of the Bundesliga this season, dazzling fans with his speed, technical ability, and creativity on the ball.
After a standout 2024/25 campaign with Köln’s reserve side—where he registered 13 goals in 34 appearances—El Mala earned promotion to the senior team and wasted no time making an impact. So far this season, he has scored 4 goals and provided 1 assist in 9 Bundesliga matches, playing a key role in lifting Köln to seventh place in the table.
Reports across Europe confirm that Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea are all monitoring the teenager closely. El Mala’s current contract, which runs until June 2030 after being extended last summer, puts Köln in a strong negotiating position. The club is reportedly valuing him at around €40 million, though that price tag could rise significantly if his impressive form continues.
Known primarily as a left winger, El Mala is also capable of playing on the right flank or through the middle, giving him the tactical versatility modern managers crave. His standout display in Köln’s recent 4–1 win over Hamburg, where he both scored and assisted, has further boosted his reputation among top European scouts.
Under the leadership of Rúben Amorim, Manchester United have prioritized signing young players with long-term potential, making El Mala a natural target. However, Liverpool’s high-tempo style under Arne Slot and Chelsea’s focus on youth development also make them strong contenders for his signature.
Ultimately, El Mala’s next move could depend on which club secures Champions League football next season. Still, United’s ability to attract rising stars—like Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Šeško—even without European competition, shows their enduring magnetism in the transfer market.
