“It will happen eventually” – Brighton transfer encouragement, player listened to summer offer

Cologne winger Said El Mala has confirmed that he listened to offers during the summer transfer window, providing encouragement to long-term suitors Brighton & Hove Albion. Brighton previously made a permanent transfer bid of €20m in 2025 and continued their pursuit into 2026, with manager Fabian Hurzeler attempting to leverage personal connections. However, El Mala chose to sign a new contract with Cologne after receiving assurances regarding the German club's sporting project.

Despite committing his immediate future to Cologne, the newly capped Germany international indicated an openness to an eventual move. El Mala stated his ambition to compete in the Champions League, noting that while the timing remains uncertain, "it will happen eventually." Reports suggest Brighton plan to renew their interest in the winger in upcoming transfer windows.