The battle for one of Germany’s brightest young talents could be about to intensify.
According to Florian Plettenberg, Borussia Dortmund have had their opening offer for Said El Mala rejected by FC Köln.
The proposed package was reportedly worth:
● €26 million guaranteed.
● €8 million in easily achievable bonuses.
● €8 million in more difficult add-ons.
Despite the offer potentially reaching €42 million, Köln are understood to be holding out for more than €50 million.
That immediately raises an interesting question for Liverpool supporters:
Should the Reds now get involved?
A Player Liverpool Have Already Been Linked With
Liverpool have previously been credited with an interest in El Mala.
The 19-year-old winger is regarded as one of Germany’s most exciting attacking prospects, with his pace, direct running and ability to beat defenders attracting interest from several major European clubs.
For a Liverpool side looking to strengthen its wide attacking options, he appears to fit the profile the recruitment team has targeted in recent years.
Dortmund See Something Special
Borussia Dortmund have built a reputation for identifying elite young talent before many of their rivals.
The fact they are prepared to make such a significant offer speaks volumes about how highly they rate El Mala.
When Dortmund push this hard for a young player, it usually suggests they believe he has the potential to develop into a top-level performer.
That alone should make Liverpool take notice.
Does He Fit Iraola’s Style?
On paper, absolutely.
Andoni Iraola wants wide players who are fearless in one-on-one situations, press aggressively and attack with intensity.
El Mala’s game is built around exactly those qualities.
He enjoys taking defenders on, carries the ball at pace and is constantly looking to create problems in transition.
Those traits could make him a natural fit for the football Liverpool are trying to build.
The Valuation
The biggest question is whether Liverpool would be prepared to meet Köln’s demands.
A fee in excess of €50 million would represent a substantial investment for a player who is still developing.
Liverpool have shown in the past that they are willing to pay significant sums for players they truly believe in—but they have also demonstrated discipline when they feel valuations become excessive.
The club’s recruitment team will no doubt have their own figure in mind.
Competition Is Growing
With Borussia Dortmund already making their move, Liverpool may not have the luxury of waiting too long if they genuinely want the player.
The longer negotiations continue, the greater the possibility of other clubs joining the race.
That often drives prices even higher.
Should Liverpool Get Involved?
Personally, I think this is exactly the type of player Liverpool should be monitoring closely.
Young.
Technically gifted.
Fearless.
And with huge potential.
Whether he is worth more than €50 million is another debate entirely, but if Liverpool genuinely believe he can become one of Europe’s top wingers, now is the time to act—not after his value climbs even higher.
With Dortmund already testing Köln’s resolve, Liverpool’s next move will be fascinating.
Source: @FlorianPlettenberg
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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