Liverpool weigh Said El Mala move after Diomande talks stall

Liverpool are considering a switch to 1. FC Köln winger Said El Mala after talks over Yan Diomande stalled. RB Leipzig rejected a €100m offer from Liverpool for Diomande, leaving the Reds to reassess their summer targets. El Mala, 18, has emerged as a standout performer in the Bundesliga this season. He scored 13 goals and provided four assists in all competitions, making him 1. FC Köln’s leading scorer and joint-top for assists. The teenager’s direct style and tactical flexibility have drawn comparisons with Europe’s elite young wingers. His performances have caught the eye of multiple top clubs, with Liverpool now weighing a move for the German youth international. Liverpool’s initial €100m bid for Diomande was rejected by RB Leipzig, sources told The Athletic. The Reds are now deciding whether to increase their offer or pivot to Plan B, with El Mala the preferred alternative. El Mala joined 1. FC Köln from Viktoria Köln in 2024, spending the 2024/25 season on loan to continue his development. His breakthrough campaign in 2025/26 saw him make 32 appearances and score seven goals, helping Köln climb the Bundesliga table.

Diomande hints at Liverpool move as Leipzig spurns €100m offer

The winger’s rise has been rapid since his move to Köln. After starting at Viktoria Köln, he secured a high-profile transfer before returning on loan to refine his game. His explosive acceleration and dribbling have made him a constant threat in transition. As a German youth international, El Mala is a regular for the Under-19 national team. Despite his rapid progress, he was not selected for Germany’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, reflecting his developmental stage. Liverpool’s interest in El Mala aligns with their need for a dynamic winger to bolster their attacking options. His potential to develop alongside stars like Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez adds further appeal. Should Liverpool pursue El Mala, they would face competition from other top clubs monitoring his progress. His contract situation and release clause remain key factors in any potential deal. The Reds’ summer transfer strategy now hinges on whether they can finalise a deal for Diomande or pivot to El Mala as a high-risk, high-reward alternative.