By Ultan Corcoran@UltanCorcoran

Said El Mala ends transfer speculation by committing to new 1.FC Köln contract

The highly sought-after 19-year-old winger becomes the first Köln player to wear the coveted No.10 jersey since club legend Lukas Podolski.
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Photo: Christof Koepsel/Getty Images.

After months of swirling rumours and speculation over his future, Said El Mala is staying put at 1.FC Köln.

In a stunning twist of fate, the 19-year-old sensation has even extended his contract with the Cathedral City club until June 2031.

In a video released by Köln, the winger announces he's staying and adds that he is swapping his jersey from 13 to number 10.

The number 10 jersey also holds special significance in Köln fans' hearts as it was last worn by the legendary Lukas Podolski.

This comes as a great relief to supporters after Borussia Dortmund made three failed attempts to sign El Mala this summer. 

After BVB retreated, RB Leipzig were linked with a late swoop for the German international – nothing ever materialized thereafter. 

The decision will greatly boost Rene Wagner's team ahead of the new season after he chipped in with 13 Bundesliga goals last campaign.
 

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