Media reports claim that Newcastle are keeping tabs on Said El Mala, who currently plays as a midfielder for Cologne. The move is still in the early stages, but interest appears to be growing. Newcastle remain optimistic, but the deal is not without hurdles. Chelsea, Brentford and Liverpool continue to monitor developments and could yet re-enter the race if negotiations stall or valuation gaps remain unresolved. Newcastle look balanced this season - 1.43 goals scored and 1.5 goals conceded per game. Said El Mala would be expected to bring control and consistency to help push them to another level. Newcastle have recently been linked with Yasin Abbas Ayari, Abdessamad Ezzalzouli and Victor Munoz while Cologne have had no rumoured targets. Looking for Newcastle transfer rumours? Follow us on Twitter @PlayerSwitchCom for more rumours just like this.