RB Leipzig and Köln keen to wrap up El Mala deal as soon as possible
| Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images |
1. FC Köln winger Said El Mala appears increasingly likely to move to RB Leipzig before the transfer window closes.
According to Bild, both clubs are keen to reach an agreement and conclude the transfer as quickly as possible.
Unlike Borussia Dortmund, who pulled out of talks with Köln over a deal for the 19-year-old, RB Leipzig are willing to meet the Billy Goats' demands of a fixed fee of at least €50 million.
On top of that, €5 million in easily achievable bonuses and another €5 million for “extraordinary achievements” are reportedly on the table, with Köln also set to receive a sell-on clause as part of the deal.
RB Leipzig head coach Martin Demichelis is said to be pushing for the deal to be completed, as he wants further reinforcements as quickly as possible so the team can gel before their first competitive matches of the new season.
Sport1 also reports that Leipzig’s urgency has increased following the big-money sale of Yan Diomande to Real Madrid and their failed move for TSG Hoffenheim forward Fisnik Asllani.
Leipzig have so far maintained an internal €50 million transfer-fee limit, but Die Roten Bullen appear ready to break that ceiling to bring El Mala to Leipzig.
Meanwhile, Köln are also keen to conclude negotiations quickly, as the funds generated from the deal could be used to bring in a new No. 6 and a right winger.
A decision is expected later this week.
