La Liga champions Barcelona have set their sights on the signature of FC Cologne attacker Said El Mala.
This comes amid what has been something of a breakout campaign on the part of the youngster.
Still just 19 years of age, El Mala is currently enjoying his first season in the top-flight of German football, on the books of Cologne.
And safe to say, the German youth international has not at all struggled to adapt to the challenges of the Bundesliga.
Across nine appearances to date, El Mala has racked up five direct goal contributions, courtesy of an assist, and four goals of his own.
It is the overall level of his performances which has drawn widespread praise, though, with the winger considered a potential future star in the making.
And as alluded to above, keeping a close eye on these developments are those behind the scenes at Spanish champions Barcelona.
As per a report from Diario Sport, amid an ongoing search for reinforcements in the final third, Deco and co. have earmarked El Mala as a leading target.
This comes with Hansi Flick having already given his seal of approval to such a swoop.
Cologne, for their part, are said to be demanding a sum in the region of €30 million to part with their crown jewel.
Conor Laird – GSFN
