It looks like Chelsea's summer transfer plans are taking shape—and one rumored target may not be on the list after all. Despite recent reports linking the Blues with Cologne's exciting young winger Said El Mala, Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg has poured cold water on the speculation.

According to Plettenberg, Chelsea are "currently not in the race" for the €50 million-rated teenager, despite being previously reported as leading contenders. Instead, Brighton are waiting in the wings, while Bayern Munich have stepped back at that price point.

El Mala has been turning heads in his debut Bundesliga season, racking up an impressive 12 goals and 5 assists. However, his immediate focus is on representing his country at the upcoming World Cup, with a Premier League move likely on the horizon—but not necessarily to Stamford Bridge.

The Blues had a quiet January window, but all signs point to a busy summer ahead. Co-owner Behdad Eghbali has hinted at tweaks to the club's transfer model, though fans remain skeptical until they see action. Chelsea are still on the hunt for a center-back, midfielder, and an attacker—specifically a creative option who can operate from the left and through the middle.

Despite already signing four attackers last summer and having Geovany Quenda and Emmanuel Emegha arriving at season's end, Chelsea reportedly want one more offensive piece. Names like Morgan Rogers and Anthony Gordon have been linked, but El Mala appears to be off the table for now.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are reportedly exploring a move for Liam Delap, but Chelsea's stance is firm: the 23-year-old, who joined for £30 million last summer, is not for sale. As the summer window approaches, expect more twists and turns in the Blues' transfer saga.