Even though Said El Mala extended his contract with Köln until 2031 just two months ago, club boss Thomas Kessler has left the door open for a potential sale of the talented winger.

After persistent speculation over his future, Said El Mala ultimately signed a long-term contract extension with 1. FC Köln until 2031.

Despite this, the Bundesliga outfit are not ruling out a sale of the 20-year-old winger.

“If a top club calls at some point, we’d be happy to discuss a transfer,” 1. FC Köln sporting managing director Thomas Kessler told Bild.

“But until then, it’s primarily up to Said himself how far his journey takes him. I have no doubt that he has what it takes to develop into an international top player.”

Although a winter transfer isn't entirely off the table, Köln are planning for El Mala to stay until the end of the season.

“You should never categorically rule anything out in football,” Kessler continued.

“But I can say very clearly that we are firmly planning for Said to stay with us for the entire season. He didn’t extend his contract again without good reason. Therefore, I currently see no reason to concern myself with a possible move in the winter. Our shared focus is on Said continuing to develop here and on us being successful as a team.”

According to Bild, there is still a market for El Mala in the Premier League, with several clubs having previously been linked with the winger.