​Liverpool have entered the race to sign Said El Mala, a 19-year-old winger from Cologne valued at about €50million (£43.1m), as part of their search for another attacking option to complement Yan Diomande. Diomande remains a top target, but RB Leipzig’s asking price—around €148m (£128m)—has complicated plans, pushing Liverpool to consider alternatives. Andoni Iraola has already acted decisively by landing Victor Munoz after Liverpool hijacked Newcastle United’s pursuit of the Spanish winger, and the club’s attention could be turning to another young, versatile forward who can reshape the attack in the coming years.
El Mala’s appeal is clear: he is quick, technically sharp and has a goal-scoring record of 27 goals in 81 senior games. He can play on either wing or as an attacking midfielder, offering the fluidity Liverpool want from their forward line. He isn’t alone in attracting interest, with Tottenham and Newcastle also linked with him. The competition matters, as all three clubs are seeking high-quality, young attacking options.
The ongoing Diomande pursuit informs Liverpool’s thinking. The club wants pace, youth, explosiveness and long-term upside, aiming for a future where Mohamed Salah won’t shoulder the right-sided burden alone. El Mala fits this strategic direction, even if his profile differs and his price is lower than Leipzig’s asking price for Diomande. At about £43.1m, El Mala would still be a significant investment, but far more palatable than the €148m Leipzig reportedly demands.
The big question remains whether Liverpool view El Mala as an alternative to Diomande, a parallel target, or a player who could develop alongside another forward signing. There is risk in such a step—the jump from Cologne to the Premier League demands rapid adaptation in speed of thought, physical resilience, and tactical discipline. Still, Liverpool have shown a willingness to trust younger players when the recruitment case is strong, and Iraola’s system will require forwards who can press, carry the ball, and make aggressive runs into space. El Mala’s profile appears to align with that approach.