Brentford have stepped into the chase for Cologne winger Said El Mala.
The 19-year-old has been on Chelsea’s radar but Brighton are the club that have made the greatest effort to sign him since the turn of the year.
However, the south coast club have failed to agree on the figures wanted as Cologne persist in asking for £43.6million.
Brighton are now exploring a move for Hoffenheim’s winger Bazoumana Toure instead, who had been linked with Liverpool.
The 20-year-old Ivory Coast international is valued closer to £34m.
Brentford, meanwhile, checked on El Mala again on Saturday as he scored in Cologne’s clash at Bayern Munich.
Brentford, Brighton and Chelsea have all shown interest in Cologne forward Said El Mala
They want to open talks in a hope of stealing a march on other suitors.
El Mala has had a standout season and is in contention to be named in Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann’s squad for the World Cup when it is announced on Thursday.
