Tottenham-linked Bundesliga talent is on the radar of Premier League rivals Liverpool
Tottenham Hotspur announced the signing of highly-rated Brazilian left-back Souza from Santos on Thursday evening. Souza, who will compete with Destiny Udogie for the left-back spot, has become the Lilywhites’ second signing of the January transfer window after the capture of Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid.
However, it is evident that Tottenham need to add more players in the coming days if they are to salvage their season and push towards European qualification. One persistent issue continues to trouble Thomas Frank as he searches for the perfect balance within his squad — the lack of a prolific left-winger. It’s a glaring weakness that is currently holding Spurs back after the departure of the iconic Son Heung-min last summer.
Many expected Tottenham to bring in a new winger following Son’s exit. Yet, former chairman Daniel Levy appeared to underestimate the importance of replacing the South Korean ace, opting instead to rely on the existing options. However, they haven’t been good enough, with neither Mathys Tel nor Wilson Odobert delivering consistent displays.
Thomas Frank wants Tottenham to add a left-winger to his ranks this month
Thomas Frank wants Tottenham to add a left-winger to his ranks this month
Liverpool scouting FC Koln winger Said El Mala
FC Koln winger Said El Mala has reportedly emerged as a target for Spurs. He has been a revelation for FC Koln this season, racking up seven goals and three assists in 18 Bundesliga appearances. The teenager’s rise to Bundesliga prominence this season has been simply sensational, catching the attention of several top European clubs.
Tottenham aren’t the only Premier League outfit to have shown an interest in Said El Mala. According to a report from The Daily Mail, Liverpool has been scouting El Mala ahead of a possible swoop before the transfer window closes.
Despite breaking the British transfer record twice in the past summer transfer window, Liverpool have put up a poor Premier League title defence. The Reds find themselves fourth in the table, 14 points behind league leaders Arsenal after 22 games. They failed to replace Luiz Diaz after his move to Bayern Munich last year, and Arne Slot is now dealing with the consequences of the club’s decision.
FC Cologne sensation Said El Mala has been attracting interest from several clubs across Europe, including Tottenham.
FC Cologne sensation Said El Mala has been attracting interest from several clubs across Europe, including Tottenham and Liverpool.
Thus, the Merseyside giants’ interest in El Mala makes sense. The Koln man has proven to be decisive, tricky and unpredictable in the Bundesliga this term. He has qualities to improve top teams, and Tottenham must challenge Liverpool for the German international’s signature.
However, El Mala is under contract with the Billy Goats until 2030, which places the Bundesliga club in a strong position for any interest or bids that may come in for him during the ongoing January window or in the summer. Plus, the player’s agent claimed earlier this month that a move away from Koln in this transfer window is “not on the cards”.
Yet, the least Tottenham could do is test Koln’s resolve with a bid for the winger before the transfer deadline. If the Bundesliga are reluctant to part ways with their most influential player midway through the season, Spurs must then continue monitoring El Mala’s performances until the conclusion of the campaign before making a concrete attempt to lure him to north London ahead of Liverpool in the summer.