Bayer Leverkusen Set to Break Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga Transfer Record with Kerim Alajbegovic Move
Clubs from England and Italy are showing strong interest in Kerim Alajbegovic. This bidding battle is benefiting not just the player but also Bayer Leverkusen, who are about to break a Bundesliga transfer record previously held by Bayern Munich.
Leverkusen's Careful Approach to Alajbegovic's Final Days at the Club
After World Cup participants returned to training on Monday, Leverkusen's sporting director Simon Rolfes revealed that Alajbegovic will participate only sparingly. The club wants to avoid any injury risks jeopardizing the high-value transfer at this critical moment.
Rolfes said, "He will be there on Monday for the return of the World Cup players." But long-term retention seems unlikely as a multi-million euro move has reportedly been settled after intense negotiations.
Record-Breaking Offer From Chelsea
Chelsea reportedly offered 40 million euros for the 18-year-old attacking midfielder, matching Leverkusen's valuation. This would set a new Bundesliga record for an under-19 player transfer. The previous benchmark was Bayern Munich's 35 million euro purchase of Renato Sanches from Benfica in 2016.
Leverkusen’s perspective is striking: Alajbegovic has yet to play a professional minute for the club. They’re not losing an established star, only a promising talent. Rolfes noted, "Kerim has made an incredible development. He is extremely ambitious and has developed astonishingly quickly."
Alajbegovic's Rise Through Salzburg and Back to Leverkusen
Last summer, Leverkusen loaned academy product Alajbegovic to Salzburg for two million euros, securing a buy-back option at eight million euros. After just six months, his impact convinced Bayer to activate that clause.
Alajbegovic initially struggled with loneliness and adjustment, admitting, "At the beginning it was difficult: I was in a hotel for a month and a half, so I was very alone." Once settled, he thrived, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in 44 matches. Reflecting on his growth, he said, "It was the best decision to come here," highlighting personal maturity and learning to control his competitive aggression.
World Cup Performances Elevate Alajbegovic’s Profile
Back at Leverkusen as a World Cup participant, Alajbegovic has left boyhood behind. His performances caught attention beyond Germany, especially after becoming Bosnia's youngest ever international debutant and playing key roles in wins over Wales and Italy during World Cup qualifiers.
His goal against Qatar showcased exceptional shooting skills, especially from distance. Rolfes praised his technique, saying, "That really makes him special."
Chelsea’s Xabi Alonso Linked to the Transfer
Chelsea’s new head coach Xabi Alonso knows Alajbegovic well from their time together at Leverkusen, where the youngster was part of matchday squads but never played. Alonso's familiarity likely fuels Chelsea's interest and willingness to pay a record fee.
Still, Chelsea’s recent acquisition of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa complicates matters. Reports suggest Alajbegovic might face a loan spell at clubs like Racing Strasbourg, which is part of the same ownership group as Chelsea, though he had previously rejected such options.
Juventus Emerges as Leading Contender
Juventus has reentered the race, reportedly agreeing terms with all parties for a base fee of 33 million euros plus bonuses totaling 40 million euros—the same amount Chelsea offered.
The Italians have promised Alajbegovic a starting role, a factor that reportedly sways the young player. According to Sky, only minor details remain before the deal becomes official.
Regardless of whether Chelsea, Juventus, or another club secures him, one thing stands out: the Bundesliga is about to witness a new record transfer.
Transfer Record Progression
- Previous Record: Bayern Munich paid approximately 35 million euros for Renato Sanches in 2016.
- New Record (Pending): Around 40 million euros for Kerim Alajbegovic, possibly by Chelsea or Juventus.
