Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are both looking to make significant changes to their squads this summer following disappointing seasons, with the former now targeting a move for FC Koln winger Said El Mala, according to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs.

Tottenham have been heavily linked with a move for the exciting German attacker in recent days, and now they have been joined by Liverpool in the race for the 19-year-old.

The Reds are determined to add to their frontline following the big exit of Mohamed Salah this summer, with a deal already completed to sign Victor Munoz from Osasuna out of nowhere.

It was a £34m transfer that shocked Newcastle United too, with the Magpies believing that they were about to sign the Spain international, before Liverpool’s late hijack.

The Merseyside outfit aren’t done there though, as Andoni Iraola looks to add more pace to a frontline that currently includes Cody Gakpo, Alexander Isak, Rio Ngumoha, Federico Chiesa and Hugo Ekitike, although the Frenchman is likely to be unavailable until 2027 because of injury.

Liverpool have identified RB Leipzig wonderkid Yan Diomande as their top target to replace Salah, but they have other targets in mind in case they can’t land the Ivorian.

Liverpool Shortlist Tottenham Target Said El Mala

via Reuters

Liverpool are continuing to push for a deal to sign Yan Diomande, with confidence growing on the player side of negotiations that the teenager wants a move to Anfield, according to GMS sources.

However, the Reds still need to reach an agreement on a fee with Leipzig, who are determined to keep the Ivory Coast international.

They have already rejected a £87m bid from Liverpool for their winger, with Fabrizio Romano suggesting that a bid north of £100m could be considered.

However, Jacobs has confirmed that the Merseysiders have alternative targets in case they can’t find an agreement, including Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola and Koln’s Said El Mala.

Reports from Germany have suggested that Tottenham are set to make a concrete offer for the 19-year-old German, who has been described as having a ‘God-given talent’ by his manager.

Brighton and Hove Albion’s Yankuba Minteh and Lille’s Matias Fernandez-Pardo are the other names on the shortlist.

Liverpool Eyeing Double Midfielder Deal

REUTERS/Peter Powell

Liverpool are also looking at other areas of the pitch for new arrivals too, including in central midfield.

The Reds are expecting to lose Curtis Jones this summer, with the Englishman continuing to be linked with a move to Serie A, while doubts have been raised over the future of Alexis Mac Allister.

The Merseysiders are considering central midfield options as a result, with Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton a player they have big appreciation for, according to GMS sources.

Liverpool have also held meetings over a move for Morocco sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi, according to Fabrizio Romano, with the 18-year-old exploding onto the world scene at the 2026 World Cup after racking up almost 100 senior appearances for Lille.

Much was made of Josh Hokit’s post-fight interview at UFC Freedom 250 after he made a controversial remark about the former First Lady Michelle Obama.

Hokit once again put on a stellar performance and backed up his trash talk with a fourth win in the last six months. Late into the second round, his pressure proved too much for Derrick Lewis, as referee Herb Dean had to step in and bring an end to the ground and pound.

Hokit’s always been a divisive figure, but for many, his actions at UFC Freedom 250 were a step too far. He was afforded the opportunity to fight in front of the White House and controversially used his platform to make an offensive slur about Barack Obama’s wife.

The question now is, will he face any further action?

Amber Searls via Imagn Images

Upon receiving the microphone from Joe Rogan, Hokit, like he always does, cut his on-the-nose promo, only this time, he took aim at Michelle Obama.

“Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?” he said. The controversial words sparked outrage, with UFC commentator Daniel Cormier very critical of the situation, saying: “It was an unnecessary shot on her. That’s the type of statement that divides. I absolutely hated that.”

For many, the event was a celebration of America’s history, with the White House a perfect backdrop for the occasion. A time to forget about the division that plagues everyday life and enjoy the occasion. However, Hokit’s message seemingly went against this, and as a result, has led to plenty of frustration.

While nothing is confirmed, speculation of Obama suing the fighter was sparked online after the interview, with a potential defamation case in the pipeline. However, there is no evidence to show they could go this route, with no confirmed plans by any representatives or major news organisation.

UFC Has Faced Problems Before

This isn’t the first occasion where a UFC fighter has been embroiled in controversy following a poor choice of words.

Back in January 2025, Bryce Mitchell caught the headlines for all the wrong reasons after saying Hitler was a ‘good guy.’ In response to this, UFC President Dana White said they won’t take further action due to freedom of speech. However, he also completely condemned the words, saying: “That’s the problem with the internet and social media. You provide a platform to a lot of dumb and ignorant people.”

Sean Strickland was also in controversy leading up to the UFC Freedom 250 event, as he claimed he wasn’t allowed to attend the event due to his words on Israel. Now, it’s Hokit who is in the firing line, and could he face further consequences? The words were broadcast to millions of people watching the event, and could be seen as unfairly taking aim at Obama’s reputation.

It’s unclear whether they will eventually respond, and what actions they may take, but as things stand, they are opting to ignore the comment and not seek legal action.