Guardiola’s Pursuit of the Koln Star
The drive to acquire Said El Mala for Manchester City is spearheaded by Pep Guardiola, as new information reveals the rising star’s current valuation.
According to Sky Germany, Guardiola has taken note of El Mala’s remarkable performances in the Bundesliga and is “keeping a close watch” on him as Man City considers making an offer. The talented winger is now “on City’s radar” as the club looks to enhance its options on the left side, particularly to support Jeremy Doku.
Ongoing Scouting Efforts
After thoroughly reviewing numerous match highlights, Guardiola has instructed City officials to assess El Mala firsthand during games in recent weeks. The feedback from scouts has been overwhelmingly positive, further heightening Guardiola and the club’s interest in the player.
Key Information About Said El Mala
Sky reports that the buzz surrounding El Mala is already significant, as top clubs like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund have shown interest, adding him to their lists of potential targets.
Earlier reports from another German outlet, Bild, suggested that FC Koln would demand between €50-60 million (approximately £53 million or $69 million) for him. However, new updates indicate he may be available for a reduced fee of €40 million (£35 million or $46 million) in January.
El Mala is reportedly comfortable at Koln and has a relaxed outlook on his future. The club plans to discuss his contract extension, although a substantial offer from a giant club like City or Bayern could prompt a change in his perspective.
Leading Clubs Interested in Rising Star
There have been earlier reports regarding the uncapped German forward’s possible move to Manchester City. As of late October, it has been noted that City, Manchester United, and Chelsea have all made contact with El Mala’s agent to negotiate a potential transfer. Additionally, Paris Saint-Germain is also closely monitoring his development.
Koln’s head coach, Lukas Kwasniok, has acknowledged that El Mala will eventually leave the club for a “remarkably high price”, though he intends to utilize the forward for at least another season.
Interest in the 19-year-old is understandable given his status as one of the most thrilling players in Germany. The Bundesliga’s official platform highlights him as an “explosive” winger experiencing a “meteoric rise” this season.
Described as a “spectacular talent”, El Mala is often compared to Kingsley Coman. He is known for being a direct attacker who enjoys challenging defenders, often either curling shots from distance or creating opportunities for teammates.
Potential Role for El Mala at Manchester City
Following Jack Grealish’s loan move to Everton this summer, City is seeking a new left winger, a deal that could become permanent next year if Grealish continues his impressive performances.
Jeremy Doku has emerged as Guardiola’s preferred option on the left, having significantly elevated his performance this season, as evidenced in the recent 3-0 victory over Liverpool at the Etihad.
Nonetheless, Guardiola requires a player who can both back up Doku and challenge him for a starting position — El Mala fits this profile perfectly.
Being still in his teenage years, El Mala has the opportunity to learn from City’s seasoned forwards and further his development, aiming to become one of the leading wingers.
Guardiola has begun to give forwards greater freedom to express their skills, a style that would be conducive to El Mala’s strengths.
Man City Updates: Confirmed Interest and Other Transfers
In other news, recent reports from Germany indicate that Manchester City is competing with Manchester United for a Bundesliga full-back.
