The 1. FC Köln is preparing for a major winter transfer offensive. As the FIFA transfer window comes to a close, the Bundesliga club is looking to acquire promising talents from the 3. Liga, particularly from the club Viktoria Köln.
The Talent Dilemma: Said and Malek El Mala
The players Said El Mala (18 years old) and his brother Malek El Mala (19 years old) are attracting attention. Initially, 1. FC Köln planned to integrate them into the team starting next season, with contracts until 2029, but a transfer ban is blocking their immediate integration. The question now arises whether Cologne will wait until next summer or try to recruit them this winter instead.
The young Said has recently shone by scoring during the quad nations in Romania, contributing to the DFB-U19 team’s victory against Norway with a shot from 20 meters. His exceptional performance as a left winger makes him a revelation within the Viktoria team.
Financial and Decision-Making Stakes
The two brothers have made a significant contribution to the good start of the season for Viktoria Köln, which is currently positioned in sixth place with 15 points. According to received information, the duo would have cost around 400,000 euros to 1. FC Köln, which prompts a strategic decision regarding an early transfer.
The sports management of Cologne, represented by Franz Wunderlich, has declared the intention to begin discussions in the coming weeks with Viktoria to clarify the situation of Said and Malek. While the desire is to keep the players until the end of the season, the evolution of negotiations could open the door to an earlier transfer than expected.
Conclusion: What are the Prospects for 1. FC Köln?
As the winter transfer window approaches, 1. FC Köln must weigh the benefits of an immediate acquisition against the necessity of youth player development. Management of transfers, especially with talents like the El Malas, could prove decisive for the future performances of the team in the Bundesliga.
Source : www.bild.de