The deal to bring Said El Mala to Brighton has broken down - according to sources close to the clubs. The Cologne midfielder had featured prominently in the club's plans, but sources are now speculating that no agreement was reached and both sides are expected to move on quickly to new targets. Whether talks will resume further down the line remains to be seen. The transfer has collapsed, but Said El Mala could still emerge as a target for other linked sides such as Liverpool, Tottenham and Dortmund. So far this season, Brighton are steady at both ends (1.32 goals scored per game, 1.19 goals conceded per game). The role for Said El Mala would be to keep that balance while lifting performances across the pitch. Brighton have recently been linked with Evan Ferguson while Cologne have had no rumoured targets. Looking for Brighton transfer rumours? Follow us on Twitter @PlayerSwitchCom for more rumours just like this.