Manchester United are preparing to clash with Liverpool and Chelsea over the signing of 19-year-old rising star Said El Mala from FC Köln, as the 2026 summer transfer window approaches. The young winger has caught the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs with his electrifying pace, sharp dribbling, and creative play, making him one of the standout performers in the Bundesliga this season.
El Mala’s journey to stardom began during the 2024/25 season with Köln’s reserve side, where he bagged 13 goals in 34 games. That performance earned him a call-up to the senior squad, and he wasted no time making his mark. In just nine Bundesliga appearances this season, the teenager has already netted four goals and delivered one assist, helping lift Köln to a surprising seventh place in the standings.
European media outlets have confirmed that Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea are all keeping close tabs on El Mala’s progress. The young German winger’s contract, extended last summer until June 2030, gives Köln a solid bargaining position. His market value currently sits at about €40 million, but with his current form, that figure could easily climb as interest intensifies.
El Mala’s versatility adds to his appeal—though naturally a left winger, he’s equally comfortable operating on the right or even through the center. His standout performance in Köln’s 4–1 demolition of Hamburg, where he scored and assisted, further showcased his ability to dominate matches and deliver under pressure.
At Old Trafford, Rúben Amorim has been pushing for the recruitment of young, high-upside talents to rebuild Manchester United’s future, and El Mala fits that vision perfectly. His energy and adaptability align with Amorim’s dynamic attacking style, which values both work ethic and technical brilliance.
Liverpool, under Arne Slot, could also be an ideal destination, given Slot’s preference for explosive wingers who thrive in a high-pressing system. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s ongoing youth project—built around nurturing young prospects into future stars—makes them equally serious contenders in the chase.
For now, much will depend on which club secures Champions League qualification. El Mala is believed to prioritize playing on Europe’s biggest stage, where his talent can be showcased against the continent’s elite. That factor alone could heavily influence his final decision.
Still, Manchester United’s reputation for attracting emerging stars remains a key advantage. Even without Champions League football, they’ve managed to pull in names like Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Šeško in recent years. El Mala’s signing could be the next major step in their mission to rebuild a youthful and competitive squad or the future.
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