Bayer Leverkusen Set to Break Bayern Munich's Record with Kerim Alajbegovic Transfer

Bidding War for Kerim Alajbegovic Heats Up

Interest in Kerim Alajbegovic from top English and Italian clubs is intensifying. This competition benefits not just the young player but also Bayer Leverkusen, who are poised to shatter a Bundesliga transfer record previously held by Bayern Munich.

Leverkusen Prepares for Alajbegovic’s Departure

As World Cup participants return to training, Leverkusen is cautious with Alajbegovic. The club wants to avoid any injury risk at this crucial transfer stage. Sporting director Simon Rolfes confirmed that while the 18-year-old Bosnian midfielder will rejoin training, his long-term future at the club looks unlikely due to an agreed multi-million euro move.

Chelsea Leads with a Record-Breaking Offer

Bild reports that Chelsea has tabled a €40 million bid for Alajbegovic, matching Leverkusen’s valuation and setting a new Bundesliga record for an under-19 player. The previous record was set by Bayern Munich when they paid around €35 million for Renato Sanches in 2016.

Remarkably, Alajbegovic has yet to play professional minutes for Leverkusen. The club is not losing a key first-team player but a promising talent. Rolfes praised his rapid development and ambition, calling it “incredible.”

Alajbegovic’s Rise Through Salzburg

Last summer, Leverkusen loaned Alajbegovic to Salzburg for €2 million, including an €8 million buy-back clause. His performance there convinced Bayer to activate that option early. Despite initial challenges adapting—he spent six weeks isolated in a hotel—the midfielder flourished, scoring 13 goals and providing 4 assists in 44 games.

"It was the best decision to come here," Alajbegovic said, reflecting on his growth both as a player and person. "I hate losing and sometimes get aggressive, but I’ve learned to stay calm."

World Cup Impact and Growing Reputation

Returning to Leverkusen as a World Cup participant, Alajbegovic has also made history as Bosnia’s youngest-ever international debutant. He played key roles in qualifying victories over Wales and Italy and impressed with a spectacular goal against Qatar. His precise shooting, especially from distance, makes him stand out.

Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea Interest

Chelsea coach Xabi Alonso, familiar with Alajbegovic from their time together at Leverkusen, likely values the midfielder highly. Though Alonso included Alajbegovic in matchday squads previously, the youngster never appeared on the pitch. Chelsea’s €40 million offer reflects Alonso’s belief in his potential.

Despite this, a move to Chelsea might be complicated. The Blues recently signed Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa, limiting space in attacking midfield. Reports suggest Alajbegovic could be loaned immediately to clubs like Racing Strasbourg, linked to Chelsea’s Blue Group network—a prospect he had earlier dismissed.

Juventus Emerges as Front-Runner

Juventus has re-entered the race, reportedly leading now. According to Sky, the Italian club and all parties have reached an agreement: a base fee of €33 million plus bonuses that could bring the total to €40 million, matching Chelsea’s offer.

Juventus promises Alajbegovic a place in their starting lineup, a strong selling point. Final details remain before the deal is official, but regardless of whether Chelsea, Juventus, or another suitor wins the transfer, one fact is clear:

• Bayer Leverkusen will break a Bundesliga record for an under-19 player transfer.