Borussia Dortmund is preparing a final transfer offer for FC Koln talent El Mala. According to a report by Transfermarkt on September 7, 2026, the release clause demanded by 1. FC Köln is said to be achievable through variable bonus payments.
BVB has expressed concrete interest in signing the young player. Dortmund officials see El Mala as a major talent who could strengthen their attack. Cologne, on the other hand, are firmly planning with the player for the current season and are only willing to let him go for an exceptional offer. The player himself is said to prefer a move to BVB over a switch to an English club.
What is the requested transfer fee?
The exact amount of FC Köln's asking price has not been disclosed publicly. However, discussions mention figures around 50 million euros as a fixed fee, which could rise further through bonus payments. From some observers' perspective, an amount around 40 million euros would be a more realistic basis for negotiations. FC Köln is in a strong negotiating position, as El Mala has a long-term contract and is a key part of the squad. The current squad list of 1. FC Köln shows the player's deep integration into the team's planning.
What alternatives does Borussia Dortmund have?
For BVB, the question is whether an investment of this magnitude for El Mala is the right solution. Critics point out that for similar sums, more established players like Michael Olise from Crystal Palace have already moved to Bayern Munich. According to experts, Dortmund need reinforcements not only on the wings but also a defensive midfielder and possibly a right-back following the departure of Yan Couto. A strategy too focused on a single player, as was the case in the past with the signing of Felix Nmecha, could weaken their negotiating position.
What would a transfer mean for BVB's finances?
A transfer of this scale would significantly strain Borussia Dortmund's transfer budget. Some commentators doubt that BVB could subsequently claim to have only a limited budget of around 20 million euros. Other planned signings, for players like Giannis Karetsas, could then become more difficult to realize. The financial room for maneuver is also influenced by the current league situation, which can be tracked on our standings page.
What's next for El Mala and FC Köln?
El Mala is considered a loyal player who, by general consensus, would not force a move. Should no offer acceptable to FC Köln materialize, the player would be willing to stay with the Billy Goats for another season. For 1. FC Köln, retaining the talent would be a sporting gain to achieve their season objectives. The next sporting challenge for FC Köln is the Bundesliga match against SC Freiburg on September 13, 2026, as shown in the fixtures calendar.
