Earlier this month, we covered claims from Germany that Manchester City are in the picture to sign FC Köln’s Said El Mala.
Pep Guardiola seems to be leading the Premier League side’s pursuit of the 19-year-old.
Sky Deutschland now reports the winger has already impressed the Manchester City boss.
The Germany U21 international arrived at the Bundesliga side in July, a year after they agreed a deal with Viktoria Köln for his signing.
El Mala has four goals and two assists from 10 league matches this season. His form has caught Guardiola’s attention.
According to Sky Deutschland, the Citizens manager has recently reviewed several videos of the rising star.
It’s further claimed the Spaniard is having him closely monitored by Manchester City officials. This has seen the English club’s scouts watch him live in action for FC Köln.
Sky claim Julian Nagelsmann has informed the player about the areas he needs to improve. He’ll have to maintain his good run to make it to the next World Cup, after receiving his first call-up this month. FC Köln are said to be demanding €40m for him.
The report adds the German club have planned talks with his representative for January.
El Mala is happy at FC Köln and isn’t in a rush to change clubs. Manchester City will have to convince him if they wish to sign the player desired by Guardiola.