Reports said Paris Saint-Germain had made an official enquiry about a potential winter transfer for 1. FC Köln's Said El Mala. Cologne planned to keep him until at least the summer.
PSG contact Cologne
Sport Bild reported that Paris Saint-Germain had made an official enquiry to FC chief Thomas Kessler about a potential transfer for Said El Mala. No official offer had yet reached Geißbockheim.
Cologne's position
Said El Mala unexpectedly extended his contract until 2031 a few months earlier, and his new deal has no release clause. Thomas Kessler said: "In football, you should never categorically rule anything out."
Kessler also said: "He did not extend his contract again without good reason. So, at present, I have no reason to concern myself with a possible move in the winter."
El Mala feels "very comfortable" in Cologne.
Brighton interest remains
Sky reported that Brighton & Hove Albion were once again interested in signing El Mala. Sky reported that Brighton had tried unsuccessfully to arrange a transfer for El Mala last season.
Sky reported that Brighton were said to be willing to sign El Mala's brother Malek too. Malek El Mala scored his first Bundesliga goal for the Billy Goats, and the brothers are reportedly available only as a pair.
Brighton are said to be watching both brothers' development closely and regularly sending scouts to Cologne. Brighton have no plans to move in the winter.
