The representative of Man City transfer target Said El Mala has denied claims that the winger could leave FC Cologne.

Reports in the German press in recent weeks have suggested that the Cityzens, Manchester United and Tottenham are keeping close tabs on the 19-year-old.

However, El Mala’s agent, Martin Carmona, says that the winger is completely focused on playing for his current team:

“Said feels completely at home in Cologne. Right now, his only focus is on immediately ending the negative trend of the past few weeks in the New Year and stabilizing the team. A transfer is not on the cards for Said at the moment.”

Cologne may consider selling El Mala

While the German’s agent is seemingly playing down an imminent departure from the Bundesliga, his club may have other ideas.

El Mala was signed for just €350,000 in the summer of 2024, and Cologne believe that he could be worth up to €40m (£35m) now. If they receive a proposal in that ballpark either in January or at the end of the season, they could be tempted to cash in and make a very handsome profit on the player.

Guardiola is a big fan

Last month, it was reported that Pep Guardiola has been taking a keen interest in El Mala’s development, having watched several videos of him in action over the course of the campaign.

Of course, just because Guardiola admires the player, it doesn’t necessarily mean City will go ahead with making a bid. It should be pointed out that the club are closing in on a deal for another winger. Antoine Semenyo could complete his move from Bournemouth for £65m at the start of next month, leaving the way clear for other Premier League teams to land El Mala.

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