AC Milan Eyeing Köln Star Said El Mala as Dortmund’s Deal Hinges on €55m Price Tag

FolioPitch.com – 13 August 2026 | The transfer saga surrounding Köln’s star forward Said El Mala is heating up, with AC Milan waiting in the wings if Borussia Dortmund fails to secure a deal. According to Express.de, Dortmund have been told that they must offer €50m fixed plus €5m in bonuses to sign El Mala, and if they agree to this terms, FC Köln will not stand in their way. However, until Dortmund make an offer that meets Köln’s asking price, the door remains open for other suitors.

AC Milan are reportedly considering a swoop for the German U21 international, who scored 13 Bundesliga goals last season. If Dortmund back down or even withdraw from the running, El Mala would still have an option abroad. Milan need to make sales before they can think about offering serious money for a player like El Mala, and there are plenty of candidates, but time is running out, with less than three weeks to secure exits and signings to complete the squad.

AC Milan’s interest in El Mala is not a surprise, given their recent dealings with Borussia Dortmund. The two clubs have already competed for a left-footed playmaker in Konstantinos Karetsas, who joined Dortmund from Genk and impressed on debut, scoring a beauty against Arsenal. If Milan can secure a deal for El Mala, it would be a significant coup, and a major blow to Dortmund’s plans.

The Express.de report has sent shockwaves through the transfer market, with many believing that Dortmund’s chances of signing El Mala are slim. However, until an official offer is made, the transfer saga remains ongoing. AC Milan’s patience will be tested in the coming weeks as they wait to see if Dortmund will meet their asking price.