Dortmund withdraws from transfer negotiations

Borussia Dortmund has abruptly ended its pursuit of FC Cologne’s rising star, Said El Mala. The decision follows the rejection of a blockbuster transfer offer exceeding 50 million euros by the Bundesliga club, which had presented its final bid in recent days.

Club sporting director Lars Ricken and executive Ole Book led the negotiations on behalf of Dortmund, but the talks ultimately collapsed. The black and yellows have now closed the door on any further attempts to sign the player this summer, marking the end of one of the most closely watched transfer sagas of the season.

Ricken confirms transfer failure

In a clear statement, Lars Ricken has confirmed that Said El Mala will not be joining Borussia Dortmund. Speaking to the media, he emphasized the finality of the situation, stating: « Said El Mala is not a Borussia Dortmund player now, nor will he be in the coming months. »

« We held constructive discussions with 1. FC Köln in recent days, but their rejection of our final offer has forced us to step back entirely. No further proposals will be made, and our involvement in this transfer is now concluded. »

Bonus structure proves to be the dealbreaker

While the financial package on the table was substantial—with a base transfer fee of around 46 million euros—the structure of potential bonuses ultimately derailed the deal. According to insiders, the total package could have reached between 52 and 53 million euros if certain performance-related conditions were met.

However, Cologne remained firmly opposed to the terms of these bonuses. The conditions were tied to long-term milestones, primarily the player’s appearances for the first team, meaning the club would have received no guaranteed financial return in the short term. This lack of certainty proved unacceptable to the management of 1. FC Köln.

El Mala to stay in Cologne

With Dortmund out of the picture, Said El Mala will continue his development at FC Cologne. The young forward is expected to focus entirely on his performances for the club in the upcoming season, as Cologne’s stance on the matter remains unyielding.

The Rhineland club has once again demonstrated its firm control over its most valuable assets, refusing to compromise on the terms of a transfer that could have exceeded their valuation of 50 million euros. Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund’s recruitment team must now pivot toward alternative targets as the summer transfer window nears its close.