PSG and Premier League clubs eyeing El Mala as Köln raise asking price

According to Sport Bild, €50 million would no longer be enough to convince 1. FC Köln to sell Said El Mala, who has recently been linked with clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain and Brighton & Hove Albion.

FC Köln, signing a contract extension until 2031. However, this doesn't guarantee that the 20-year-old will remain with the Billy Goats long term, with Sport Bild reporting that a fresh bidding war for the German international could be on the cards in January.

Following recent reports from France suggesting that Paris Saint-Germain view El Mala as a potential replacement for the long-term injured Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Sport Bild claims that PSG had already approached 1. FC Köln sporting managing director Thomas Kessler about the youngster last summer.

No formal enquiry has been made at this stage, but PSG - along with several other clubs - are expected to keep a close eye on El Mala's development over the coming months. The winger also remains on the radar of clubs in England, with Brighton & Hove Albion recently linked with a fresh approach.

Köln are understood to have put a higher price on El Mala since the summer, with Sport Bild suggesting that €50 million would no longer be enough to convince them to sell. "You should never categorically rule anything out in football.

He didn't extend his contract again without reason. Therefore, I currently see no reason to concern myself with a potential January move," Köln sporting managing director Thomas Kessler told Sport Bild.

"I certainly don't need to tie Saïd down. He's a great lad who simply loves playing football.

He feels very comfortable within the team, and I get the impression that he is growing increasingly attached to the club and everything around it." El Mala has scored four goals and provided one assist in nine appearances for Köln so far this season. He made his senior debut for Germany in October.