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

Interest in Kerim Alajbegovic from top clubs in England and Italy is heating up. This bidding war benefits not just the young player but also Bayer Leverkusen, who are on the brink of breaking one of Bayern Munich's transfer records.

Leverkusen Players Return as Alajbegovic’s Future Shifts

After an extended holiday due to World Cup duties, most Bayer Leverkusen players returned to training recently. But the club is being cautious with 18-year-old Alajbegovic, limiting his participation to avoid injury risks before a major transfer deal is finalized.

"He will be there for the return of the World Cup players," confirmed Bayer’s sporting director Simon Rolfes to Bild. "But the chances of Kerim staying long-term are slim because a multi-million move seems already decided."

Record-Breaking Offer from Chelsea

According to Bild, Chelsea made a bid matching Bayer's valuation at 40 million euros for the attacking midfielder. If completed, this would set a new Bundesliga record for an Under-19 player transfer, surpassing the previous record held by Bayern Munich when they signed Renato Sanches from Benfica for around 35 million euros in 2016.

From Leverkusen’s perspective, it’s remarkable that Alajbegovic has not yet played professional minutes for the club. They’re not losing an established star but a promising talent. Rolfes remarked, "Kerim has developed incredibly fast and is very ambitious."

Development Through Salzburg Loan

Last summer, Leverkusen loaned Alajbegovic to Salzburg with a buy-back option for eight million euros after selling him for two million. Despite initial challenges adjusting to life away from home, the Bosnian blossomed, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in 44 matches. He called the move the best decision for both his playing and personal growth.

"Before Salzburg, I was still a boy," Alajbegovic shared. "Now I’m more mature both on and off the field. I hate losing and sometimes get aggressive, but I’ve learned to stay calm."

World Cup Impact and Rising Interest

Returning to Leverkusen this week as a World Cup participant, Alajbegovic’s performance on the international stage further raised his profile. He became Bosnia’s youngest ever debutant and was influential in their playoff victories over Wales and Italy, including scoring a notable goal against Qatar.

Rolfes highlighted his exceptional shooting ability, especially from outside the box, which makes Alajbegovic stand out.

Chelsea’s Connection Through Coach Xabi Alonso

Chelsea’s interest is likely tied to their new head coach Xabi Alonso, who knows Alajbegovic from their time together at Leverkusen. Although Alajbegovic never played officially under Alonso, the Spaniard had included him in matchday squads previously. The 40 million euro offer reflects Alonso’s belief in the youngster’s potential.

Still, a move to Chelsea might be complicated. The club just signed Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for a hefty fee in the same midfield role, making immediate opportunities limited. Reports suggest Alajbegovic could be loaned out after joining Chelsea, potentially to Racing Strasbourg, part of the Blue Group, despite prior resistance from the player.

Juventus Emerges as Leading Contender

This situation seems to have revived Juventus’s interest. Recent reports name them as frontrunners, with Sky News indicating a deal near completion: 33 million euros upfront plus bonuses that could reach 40 million euros total.

Juventus reportedly promises Alajbegovic a spot in the starting lineup—a significant factor influencing the player's choice. Only minor details remain before the transfer announcement.

Record Transfer Looms Over Bundesliga

Whether it ends with Chelsea, Juventus, or another club entering the race, one fact stands out: Bayer Leverkusen is about to set a new record in Bundesliga transfers with Alajbegovic’s move, even before he has logged a professional minute for them.