Bayer leverkusen set to break bundesliga transfer record with kerim alajbegovic deal

At Bayer Leverkusen, players returning from World Cup duty resumed training on Monday. Yet one teenager will tread carefully during sessions—his every move scrutinized to ensure a record-breaking transfer isn’t jeopardized by an untimely injury.

Kerim Alajbegovic, the 18-year-old Bosnian midfielder, has become the hottest property in European football. His move from FC Salzburg last summer was always intended as a stepping stone, and now the Werkself is poised to smash a long-standing Bundesliga record by selling him for a fee that would surpass any previous deal involving an U19 player.

The Bayern Munich transfer of Renato Sanches to Benfica for around €35 million in 2016 had stood as the benchmark. But Chelsea has now tabled an offer of €40 million for Alajbegovic—exactly matching Leverkusen’s valuation and setting the stage for a historic exit.

« He’s back with us for the post-World Cup training session, » confirmed Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes. « But the chances of him remaining long-term are slim. This deal is all but done. »

From Salzburg breakthrough to global attention

Leverkusen loaned Alajbegovic to FC Salzburg in 2025, paying just €2 million upfront but securing an €8 million buy-back clause. Within six months, it was clear the gamble would pay off. After an early adjustment period—« I spent six weeks in a hotel, completely alone »—he flourished, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in 44 competitive appearances.

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His performances earned him a starting role for Bosnia and Herzegovina during World Cup qualifiers, where he delivered decisive contributions against Wales and Italy and netted a stunning strike against Qatar. « His striking technique, even from outside the box, is extraordinary, » Rolfes noted.

Alajbegovic himself reflected on his growth: « Before Salzburg, I was still a boy. Now? That phase is behind me. » He also revealed the mental shift required to handle setbacks: « I hate losing—sometimes it makes me aggressive, but I’ve learned to channel that into focus. »

Chelsea’s interest, Juventus’ late surge

The Blues’ pursuit of Alajbegovic isn’t surprising. Current Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who previously coached at Leverkusen, has seen the Bosnian’s potential firsthand—he was included in matchday squads multiple times under Alonso, though never given game time.

However, Chelsea’s recent signing of Morgan Rogers for €127 million has shifted priorities. Reports suggest the Blues may now consider an immediate loan for Alajbegovic, possibly to Racing Strasbourg—a club within the Blue Group.

This unexpected twist has reignited interest from Juventus. Italian sources claim the Old Lady is now favored to land Alajbegovic for a fixed fee of €33 million, with potential add-ons pushing the total to €40 million—matching Chelsea’s offer. Unlike other suitors, Juventus reportedly plans to integrate him into the first team immediately, a factor that may seal the deal.

Negotiations are reportedly in the final stages, with only minor details outstanding before an official announcement. Regardless of the destination—whether Chelsea, Juventus, or another club stepping in—the outcome is clear: Leverkusen will etch its name into Bundesliga history with the highest-ever transfer involving an U19 player.

For now, Alajbegovic trains under the watchful eyes of Leverkusen’s staff, his every touch monitored as the football world awaits the next chapter in his meteoric rise.