Chelsea and Newcastle are both reportedly in a bidding war to sign FC Koln forward Said El Mala ahead of the summer transfer window, according to a report from Sky Sports journalist Marlon Irlbacher.
In the summer, both Chelsea and Newcastle will likely be in the market for reinforcements, particularly in attack, after a disappointing 2025/2026 season so far.
Chelsea brought in multiple new forwards in the previous summer transfer window, but only Joao Pedro has truly stood out as a successful addition.
Newcastle went big on attacking reinforcements, with the likes of Yoane Wissa, Nick Woltemade, and Anthony Elanga all making the move to St James' Park, but they've all endured spells of inconsistency.
Chelsea and Newcastle Eye Bundesliga Star
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe applauds fans after the match vs Everton
According to Sky Sports reporter Irlbacher, Chelsea and Newcastle are both involved in a war to try and sign Koln forward El Mala in the summer transfer window.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler is also pushing to secure his signature, while El Mala wants to prioritise a move to the Premier League in the summer.
It's claimed that an offer in the region of £34m should be enough for Koln to part ways, and the Bundesliga club are braced for a bidding war with a host of sides showing an interest.
Said El Mala an Underrated Talent
Said El Mala
El Mala - described as a 'one in a million' talent - has contributed with 12 goals and assists in just 12 Bundesliga starts this season.
The German forward is only 19 years old, but he's already becoming one of Koln's best players, and it's no surprise that he's attracting interest from a host of clubs.
The likes of Yan Diomande and Michael Olise take a lot of the limelight when it comes to wingers in the Bundesliga,