Under INEOS, Manchester United have not been afraid to spend big to land young stars with potential to become world beaters.
Leny Yoro is a prime example of that policy, while this summer, the co-owners spent big to bring Benjamin Sesko to Old Trafford.
More such signings could be on the anvil, with SPORT1 claiming the Red Devils are among 10 big sides monitoring FC Köln winger Said El Mala.
The 19-year-old has proven to be box-office stuff for the Bundesliga side, scoring three times while assisting once in only 260 minutes of action.
United among European elite chasing Said El Mala
Naturally, this level of performance has caught the eye of Germany’s big two — Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. The attacker can play on either wing and even as an attacking midfielder.
United’s cross-town rivals Manchester City, and Chelsea are interested while Paris Saint-Germain are monitoring proceedings with interest.
“The hype surrounding super talent Said El Mala from 1. FC Köln is growing after scoring two goals in the last two Bundesliga games – and the transfer race for the 19-year-old has long since begun.
“As SPORT1 confirmed, a number of top European clubs have already contacted the rising star’s parents and agent. More than ten teams have approached the El Mala camp in recent weeks.
“In addition to FC Bayern and Borussia Dortmund, it’s no surprise that English giants are also in the running. It’s “certified” that Manchester City has put out feelers, explains Bild reporter Tobias Altschäffl in the podcast “Bayern Insider.”
Said El Mala transfer race
“Other clubs rumored to be interested include Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain.”
FC Köln have the Germany U21 international tied up till 2030, but it is unlikely that he will be playing at the RheinEnergieSTADION till then.
His current market value stands at €18 million, which represents a huge profit for his parent club given Said El Mala was acquired for a mere €350,000.
But he is likely to fetch a lot more, with some German outlets even claiming FC Köln could demand as much as €50–60 million next summer should the “phenom” continue his rise.
Feature image Alexander Hassenstein via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
