A potential transfer of Kerim Alajbegovic from Bayer Leverkusen to Atalanta is now considered improbable, according to a report from Kicker.de. Initial reports suggested an agreement between the two clubs was close, but financial obstacles and competition from other Serie A sides have complicated the move.
The primary issue preventing a deal is Leverkusen’s valuation of the 18-year-old midfielder, which currently stands at around €30million. Kicker.de reports that no Serie A club is currently willing to meet that figure, as it would represent a significant outlay for the Italian topflight. Napoli and AC Milan have also registered their interest in Alajbegovic, further strengthening Leverkusen’s negotiating position.
The situation is particularly sensitive for Leverkusen due to Alajbegovic’s potential within the club. Many supporters view the young Bosnian as a potential long-term successor to Florian Wirtz, who himself came through the Leverkusen academy before a big-money move to Bayern Munich. Selling Alajbegovic for a fee below €30million could be seen as a step backwards in the club’s commitment to developing and retaining top young talent.
Leverkusen has established itself as a successful developer of young players in recent years, with Wirtz and Kai Havertz both progressing through the club’s youth system before securing lucrative transfers to larger European clubs. Maintaining this reputation is seen as crucial for attracting future prospects and continuing the club’s sporting success. Alajbegovic represents a key part of that strategy, and the club is determined to secure a fee that reflects his potential.
Alajbegovic has yet to fully establish himself as a regular starter for Leverkusen, but has shown promise in limited appearances. The club will likely assess his development further before making a final decision on his future. A continued stay in Leverkusen could allow him to further hone his skills and increase his market value, while a move to a club like Atalanta, Napoli or Milan would offer him a different pathway to first-team football.
