Manchester United in early contact for Bosnian winger Kerim Alajbegovic

Manchester United have made initial contact over a potential summer move for Bosnian winger Kerim Alajbegovic, according to reports from his home country. The 18-year-old, currently at RB Salzburg, is expected to command a fee in excess of €30 million, with United keen to conclude a deal swiftly amid competition from Premier League rivals.

The interest forms part of a broader recruitment drive at Old Trafford ahead of a return to European competition, with the club also prioritising midfield and left-back reinforcements. Alajbegovic has emerged as a target to add depth and youthful promise to the wide attacking positions. According to Bosnian outlet Reprezentacija.ba, United are 'in contact' for the transfer and want it wrapped up 'as soon as possible', a move potentially designed to avoid his valuation rising further after the 2026 World Cup.

Alajbegovic has enjoyed a breakout season in Austria, scoring 11 goals for Salzburg. His profile was significantly raised on the international stage last month when he scored the decisive penalty in a World Cup qualifier against Wales, helping Bosnia secure a shock victory over Italy to book their place at the 2026 finals. The winger is noted for his two-footed ability and has quickly become a key figure for both club and country despite his young age.

Any deal, however, is complicated by a recent clause activation. Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen confirmed in March they had triggered a buy-back option to re-sign Alajbegovic from Salzburg when the current season concludes. Leverkusen had sold the player to the Austrian club for a reported €2.5 million just last summer, meaning United would have to negotiate directly with the German side for an immediate sale. The prospect of a substantial profit on a recently re-acquired asset is believed to be appealing to Leverkusen.

United face significant competition in their pursuit. The same report states that Chelsea and Manchester City are also 'in contact' regarding Alajbegovic, while Aston Villa 'will try to make their case'. This multi-club interest underscores the player's rapidly growing reputation in European football. For United, securing a promising talent like Alajbegovic would represent a forward-looking investment, aligning with a strategy to blend emerging prospects with established stars as they prepare for an intensified schedule.