Barcelona’s scouting department has been notably active in recent weeks, with Deco and his recruitment team widening their search for emerging talent capable of strengthening the squad’s long-term future.
The Catalans have been paying particular attention to the Bundesliga, a league that continues to produce some of Europe’s most exciting young attackers.
With Barca planning ahead for the 2026 window, several rising stars have moved onto their radar as the club attempts to balance financial constraints with sporting ambition.
This shift in approach comes at a time when competition for youthful, affordable wingers is intensifying across the continent, forcing Barcelona to evaluate targets with increasing speed and precision.
And now, one name in particular has sparked a surge of interest, triggering a fresh rivalry both domestically and abroad.
Said El Mala has become one of the Bundesliga’s breakout performers with FC Koln this season, and his rapid rise has caught the attention of major clubs across Europe.
The 19-year-old left-winger has contributed six goals and assists in just ten Bundesliga matches, making him one of the most productive young attackers in the league.
Barcelona have already taken a strong liking to the German prodigy, impressed by his pace, directness and maturity in the final third.
However, the competition for his signature is expanding rapidly, with Manchester City recently joining the race for the highly rated teenager.
And now, a new powerhouse has stepped into the frame.
According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid have also identified Said El Mala as a talent worth monitoring, with chief scout Juni Calafat already tracking his development closely.
El Mala signed a new contract with Koln in July, and although his current market value sits at €18 million, the Bundesliga club are expected to demand at least €40 million should he leave next summer.
Despite their interest, Real Madrid are not prioritising the winger for the 2026 window, as Florentino Perez has placed other major targets ahead of him on the shortlist.
A similar situation exists at Barcelona, where the immediate focus remains on signing a striker and a centre-back before next season.
The pursuit of a winger like El Mala could be pushed even lower down the list if the club opt to activate the €30 million buy option for Marcus Rashford, who has impressed during his loan spell from Manchester United.
Even so, El Mala’s development and rising value mean Barcelona will continue to monitor him closely—especially now that their fiercest rivals and Europe’s elite are circling.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
