Borussia Dortmund and 1. FC Köln negotiate Said El Mala transfer amid Sancho doubts and alternative targets

Borussia Dortmund and 1. FC Köln are in talks over the transfer of 19‑year‑old offensive midfielder Said El Mala. Köln has set an asking price of €50 million, while Dortmund’s latest offer stands at €44 million including bonuses. Negotiations remain ongoing, and recent reports suggest the move may be unlikely.

The club’s priority remains El Mala, but Dortmund is also weighing other options. The BVB has outlined conditions for a possible Jadon Sancho return – a need for a squad vacancy, the player’s fitness, and a salary cap of €5 million. Simultaneously, Dortmund is scouting alternatives such as Tottenham’s 18‑year‑old forward Mikey Moore, with the current plan described as “a loan without a purchase option.”

These developments highlight Dortmund’s strategic focus on strengthening its attack ahead of the 2026/27 Bundesliga season.