Hoffenheim has denied rumors of a transfer of Said El Mala. The Bundesliga club quickly dispelled the transfer rumors on Saturday.

What happened?

The „Express“ had previously reported that the Kraichgauer were planning a move for El Mala. According to this, the TSG wanted to put together a big package and lure him with a high transfer fee, expensive salary, and long-term contract.

Why is this important for Hoffenheim?

Hoffenheim qualified for the Europa League this season and increased the squad value by almost 50 percent since July 1, 2025. Nevertheless, it was clear that a transfer would not be feasible from an economic point of view.

What comes next?

For Köln, the poker game around El Mala could drag on for a long time. Managing Director Philipp Türoff said on Friday that it could „take until the last day of the transfer period. This is not a scenario we strive for, but we cannot rule it out.“ | Date | League Position | | --- | --- | | June 30, 2026 | 5th place, 61 points, 18W-7D-9L | | June 30, 2026 | 28 points behind Bayern München