Brighton still interested in El Mala but aim to lower Köln price as Chelsea also circle

The transfer battle for 1. FC Köln's Said El Mala is heating up. Brighton remain interested but are unwilling to meet the player's asking price, while it remains unclear whether Chelsea are able or willing to make an offer.

Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images

Despite pulling back a €35 million offer, Brighton & Hove Albion have told Said El Mala’s mother, Sabrina El Mala, that they remain interested in the 1. FC Köln youngster, according to Sport Bild.

However, Brighton have no intention of meeting Köln's €50 million asking price, and as the Billy Goats are unwilling to lower their demands, there are currently no negotiations between the clubs.

The Seagulls may now play the waiting game, hoping the price drops over the summer.

Their main rival for El Mala is arguably Chelsea, with the report claiming that the London club have indicated in talks with El Mala’s representatives that they could imagine outbidding Brighton to sign the 19-year-old and then loaning him back to Köln.

However, Chelsea currently look unlikely to act, with qualification for European football in serious doubt and a potential transfer ban looming.

Brentford and Fulham have also been mentioned as suitors, but whether they would be willing to meet Köln’s asking price remains unclear.