Bayer Leverkusen are seeking €30 million for forward Kerim Alajbegovic, according to Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, attracting interest from several clubs including Chelsea, Atalanta, Juventus, and Napoli. The 18-year-old’s potential departure comes less than a year after Leverkusen re-signed him from RB Salzburg for a fee estimated at €8 million, having initially sold him to the Austrian side for €2 million the previous summer.
Leverkusen activated their buy-back clause to bring Alajbegovic back to the BayArena, demonstrating their initial faith in the young player’s potential. However, the club are now reportedly receptive to offers, with the player himself also believed to be open to a transfer. This shift in stance is attributed to Leverkusen’s well-stocked attacking options, with multiple players already competing for positions in the areas where Alajbegovic prefers to play – on the wings and in attacking midfield.
Italian clubs are currently leading the chase, with Atalanta reportedly at the forefront of the pursuit. Serie A rivals Napoli and Juventus are also monitoring the situation closely, seeking to bolster their own attacking lineups. The Athletic reports that Chelsea are also considering a bid for Alajbegovic, adding further competition for his signature.
Alajbegovic made a limited number of appearances for Leverkusen in the Bundesliga last season, primarily featuring as a substitute. Despite his relatively limited game time, his performances have evidently attracted attention from across Europe, highlighting his potential as a promising young talent. His quick return to Leverkusen and subsequent interest from top clubs demonstrates a clear upward trajectory in his career.
While a continued stay at Leverkusen has not been entirely dismissed, the club’s willingness to entertain offers suggests they are prepared to cash in on Alajbegovic if a suitable bid is received. A sale would allow Leverkusen to further strengthen their squad in other areas, while providing Alajbegovic with the opportunity to secure regular first-team football elsewhere. The competition for his signature could drive up the final transfer fee, potentially exceeding Leverkusen’s €30 million valuation.
