Bayer Leverkusen are weighing a summer move for West Ham United defender Kostas Mavropanos, according to a report in Bild. The Bundesliga champions are seeking to bolster their options on the right side of their defence as they prepare for another season of competition both domestically and in Europe.
Mavropanos, a 26-year-old Greek international, joined West Ham from Stuttgart in August 2023 for a reported fee of £19 million. He has become a regular feature in the West Ham squad, making 35 appearances across all competitions during the 2023-24 season, contributing to their Europa League campaign and solidifying his position as a key defender. Prior to his move to London, the centre-back spent three seasons with Stuttgart, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the Bundesliga.
Leverkusen’s interest stems from a need to solidify their defensive options following a season where they secured their first ever Bundesliga title under Xabi Alonso. While Montrell Culbreath featured on the right side of defence last season, often as a wing-back under former coach Kasper Hjulmand, the arrival of Carles Martínez as manager may prompt a tactical shift and a desire for a more conventional right-sided defender. The club are also reportedly considering PSV Eindhoven’s Sergiño Dest, a more attack-minded full-back, as an alternative.
Mavropanos’s versatility is a key attribute, as he is capable of playing both as a centre-back and on the right flank. This adaptability would provide Alonso with tactical flexibility, allowing him to adjust his defensive setup depending on the opponent. The potential transfer could also offer Mavropanos the opportunity to feature regularly in the Champions League, a competition Leverkusen will participate in next season after their domestic success.
No fee has been reported at this stage, and West Ham’s willingness to sell remains unclear. However, Leverkusen’s financial strength and attractive project under Alonso could prove persuasive. Should he move to the BayArena, Mavropanos would add further quality to an already impressive Leverkusen squad.
