El Mala emerges as Leipzig’s preferred replacement for Yan Diomandé

RB Leipzig have identified Cologne forward El Mala as their preferred replacement for Yan Diomandé after the Ivorian’s move to Real Madrid.

El Mala is highly regarded in Germany and had attracted strong interest from Borussia Dortmund, who were keen to sign the young German international. However, Dortmund’s offer was rejected, opening the way for Leipzig to pursue the player.

According to BILD, Leipzig are preparing a substantial offer for El Mala as they look to make their interest difficult for Cologne to refuse.

The proposed package would include a fixed transfer fee of €50m, alongside €5m in bonuses that are considered easily attainable. A further €5m would be included as a bonus linked to exceptional performances.

The potential deal could therefore reach €60m if all of the conditions are met.

German media have described Leipzig’s interest in El Mala as a “spectacular turnaround”, particularly after Dortmund withdrew from the race for the player.

Leipzig, however, cannot yet submit their offer to Cologne. The club’s supervisory board must first approve the proposed deal before the transfer can move forward.

That decision is expected later this week, with Leipzig waiting for the green light before making their formal approach.

The German club had also considered Diego Moreira as another possible option. However, that avenue is no longer available, with the Belgian set to leave Strasbourg for AC Milan.

As a result, El Mala has emerged as Leipzig’s leading candidate to replace Diomandé.

Diomandé has left Leipzig after securing a move to Real Madrid for what is described as an exorbitant fee, creating the need for the Bundesliga club to find a replacement.

El Mala established himself in professional football last season after making a major breakthrough with Cologne.

The forward enjoyed a productive Bundesliga campaign, scoring 13 goals and providing five assists for Cologne.

Those performances have helped establish his reputation in Germany and attracted interest from some of the country’s leading clubs.

Dortmund’s previous attempt to sign him was unsuccessful, while Leipzig are now preparing to make their own move.

The next step depends on approval from Leipzig’s supervisory board, with a decision expected later this week. If approval is granted, the club can proceed with its planned offer to Cologne for El Mala.