Bayern Munich may already control the race for Said El Mala — and Brighton’s interest might not be enough to change that.
According to Christian Falk, via FCB Inside, Bayern hold a decisive contractual advantage. He reports that Bayern may have an advantage even as Brighton push to secure the 19-year-old.
Brighton’s long-term pursuit
Brighton are among the leading contenders to sign El Mala this summer. They have been chasing his signature since last summer. A renewed January approach was firmly rejected by Cologne.
Unperturbed, the Seagulls have continued to try and get a deal done before the summer.
A report last month from Germany stated that they are ‘taking the initiative’ to sign the winger. Their intention was to have a meeting with Cologne to get a deal done.
A separate report then stated that they may have an advantage over the competition as they’re willing to sign Said’s brother Malek. The pair live together and have played together their entire careers and it’s something Said is reportedly keen to continue.
That willingness could also play well with his agents. El Mala is now represented by his parents after ending his relationship with his agency.
Right of first refusal
Despite Brighton’s aggressive approach, Bayern Munich may have their own advantage. According to Falk, they have an agreement with Cologne that gives them a right of first refusal.
If another club submits a formal bid, Bayern can instantly step in and match the offer. That potentially keeps them firmly in control of the transfer.
Interestingly, there is no mention of if that clause activated when Brighton made a bid in the January transfer window. That was a written offer, so perhaps that plays a part.
Why El Mala is in demand
Either way, the situation around El Mala is certainly becoming interesting. There is almost an acceptance that he will leave Cologne this summer.
His rise in the Bundesliga this season has not gone unnoticed. The winger’s return of eight goals and three assists from 11 starts has only heightened interest.
Those numbers have certainly convinced Brighton to spend big, even with the asking price now at €50m.
Bayern appear to be lurking and waiting to see what happens. The fact they have that agreement in place with Cologne suggests they will have a say should Brighton move seriously this summer.
