"I can't say what will happen" – El Mala leaves Köln future open amid links to Brighton and Chelsea

"I can't say what will happen" – El Mala leaves Köln future open amid links to Brighton and Chelsea

1. FC Köln wonderkid Said El Mala has responded to speculation linking him with a move to England, admitting he doesn't know “what will happen” this summer.

“I feel good. I can’t say what will happen,” El Mala told DAZN after scoring the opener from the penalty spot in Köln’s 3-1 win over Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga.

His focus is currently on helping Köln secure another season in the Bundesliga. With five games left to play, the Billy Goats are 13th, five points above the relegation zone.

“I still have five games to go. And I’ll give everything. We have confidential talks with [sporting managing director] Thomas Kessler and are open and honest with each other. We still have a few games left that are extremely important for the club. When the time comes, something will be sorted out.”

Brighton & Hove Albion have shown interest in El Mala for some time, and it has been suggested that the player’s family, who represent him, has already given the green light for a move to the Seagulls.

However, reports also claim that Brighton have so far been unwilling to meet Köln’s €50 million valuation, only offering around €35 million plus add-ons.

Chelsea and Newcastle United have also been mentioned as suitors, although the latter are said to have had an initial inquiry rejected by El Mala’s representatives.