Former German footballer Lothar Matthäus has expressed his belief that young talent Said El Mala is keen on making a move to Borussia Dortmund and has thrown his support behind the potential transfer. In his recent column for Sky, Matthäus stated, “El Mala wants to join Dortmund… it is more enticing to play in the Champions League and compete for the top spots than to struggle at the bottom with Cologne.”
Matthäus highlighted the significance of El Mala’s aspirations with the national team, emphasizing that playing in international matches is crucial. He believes that a transfer to Dortmund could significantly boost the 19-year-old left winger’s chances of catching the attention of the new national team coach, Jürgen Klopp. Noting El Mala’s impressive performances with Cologne, Matthäus expressed confidence in the player’s readiness for a step up.
The ongoing negotiations between the two clubs have intensified in recent days, with reports indicating that El Mala has expressed his desire to leave Cologne. The stumbling block seems to be the transfer fee, with Cologne reportedly holding out for €50 million. Commenting on the substantial sum, Matthäus drew a comparison, saying, “That is basically two Adeyemis,” referring to Karim Adeyemi’s recent €22 million move to FC Barcelona.
While Borussia Dortmund has shown interest in El Mala, Matthäus acknowledged that every club has its financial limits. He suggested that a fee around €40 million should be sufficient to initiate discussions, hinting at Dortmund’s rumored highest offer falling within that range. However, there are concerns about achieving certain bonuses attached to the proposal. Despite these uncertainties, Dortmund’s sporting director Ole Book dismissed the circulating figures as inaccurate following a recent friendly defeat.
In addition to Dortmund, Serie A side AS Roma has emerged as a contender for El Mala’s signature, reportedly willing to exceed the €40 million mark. The young winger has also attracted interest from various Premier League clubs in the past. El Mala is currently under contract with Cologne until 2030.
As the transfer saga unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate El Mala’s potential move to a bigger stage and the impact it could have on his career trajectory. With multiple clubs vying for his services, the young talent’s future hangs in the balance as negotiations continue. Stay tuned for further developments on this promising transfer saga in the world of football.
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Club Friendlies
Cerezo Osaka vs. Borussia Dortmund on July 29, 2026, at 18:00
FC Cologne vs. Hertha Berlin on July 31, 2026, at 18:00
The Potential Transfer Saga: Said El Mala’s Next Move
Lothar Matthäus’ endorsement of Said El Mala’s potential transfer to Borussia Dortmund has sparked a wave of excitement in the football world. As the negotiations between Cologne and Dortmund intensify, the young left winger’s future hangs in the balance, with multiple clubs vying for his signature.
Matthäus highlighted El Mala’s desire to play in the Champions League and compete at the highest level, pointing out the allure of Dortmund’s prestigious status in European football. The opportunity to showcase his talent on a bigger stage could significantly impact El Mala’s career trajectory, especially in catching the eye of the national team coach.
With AS Roma reportedly willing to exceed the €40 million mark set by Dortmund, the competition for El Mala’s services has intensified. The Serie A side’s interest adds another layer of complexity to the transfer saga, as El Mala weighs his options for the next phase of his career.
Despite Cologne’s reluctance to budge on their €50 million asking price, Matthäus suggested that a compromise around €40 million could pave the way for fruitful discussions between the clubs. Dortmund’s rumored highest offer falling within that range indicates their determination to secure El Mala’s services, albeit with certain bonus-related concerns to address.
The buzz surrounding El Mala’s potential transfer has fans eagerly anticipating his next move, with the young talent’s future hanging in the balance. As the saga unfolds, the football world watches with bated breath to see where El Mala will land and how it will shape his promising career.
Exciting Match-ups on the Horizon
As the transfer drama unfolds, don’t miss out on some thrilling club friendlies to keep you entertained. On July 29, 2026, Cerezo Osaka will take on Borussia Dortmund at 18:00 in a clash that promises to deliver exciting football action. Both teams will be looking to fine-tune their strategies and showcase their skills in preparation for the upcoming season.
On July 31, 2026, FC Cologne will face Hertha Berlin at 18:00 in another friendly match that is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. The encounter between these two teams will be a test of strength and tactics as they gear up for their respective campaigns.
Stay tuned for more updates on Said El Mala’s potential transfer and catch these electrifying club friendlies to satisfy your football cravings. The summer promises to be filled with excitement and anticipation as the football world gears up for another thrilling season.