Ibrahim Maza, one of the brightest young prospects in European football, has officially signed a five-year deal with Bayer Leverkusen in a transfer worth €12 million.
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder leaves Hertha Berlin following a breakthrough season that caught the attention of top clubs across the continent.
Offers and interest reportedly came from elite sides including Manchester City, Atlético Madrid, and Inter Milan, but Maza has opted to remain in Germany, joining a Leverkusen side on the rise.
Leverkusen, currently a major force in the Bundesliga, secured the Algerian international as they prepare for another campaign in the UEFA Champions League.
The move signals both a significant step in Maza’s career and a statement of intent from the German champions as they continue to invest in young, high-potential talent.
Despite the strong interest from clubs in England, Spain, and Italy, Maza was reportedly drawn to Leverkusen’s current trajectory and the opportunity to continue his development in a stable and competitive environment.
At just 19, he is widely seen as a player with immense technical skill and maturity beyond his years — qualities that have already put him on the radar of Europe’s elite.
Having come through the youth system at Hertha Berlin, Maza made a name for himself in the 2. Bundesliga, showcasing flair, creativity, and composure under pressure.
His departure marks the end of an era for the Berlin club, which has relied heavily on its youth academy in recent seasons.
For Maza, the move to Leverkusen represents a return to Germany’s top flight and a chance to test himself at the highest level, both domestically and in Europe.
The transfer comes at a time of potential transition for Bayer Leverkusen. While the club has enjoyed a successful run under head coach Xabi Alonso, speculation continues to swirl around his future.
Reports linking Alonso with a move to Real Madrid have persisted in recent months, creating an air of uncertainty around the long-term direction of the team.
Nonetheless, Leverkusen’s management appears focused on reinforcing the squad for sustained success, with Maza seen as a key piece of that vision.
Maza’s decision to stay in the Bundesliga rather than move abroad highlights both his commitment to measured career progression and the growing reputation of German clubs in nurturing young talent.
At Leverkusen, he will have the chance to learn from a strong, experienced squad while gaining valuable minutes in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.
Hertha Berlin, meanwhile, will undoubtedly feel the loss of one of their standout players.
The club, currently battling to return to the Bundesliga after relegation, will receive a significant financial boost from the transfer fee. However, replacing Maza’s influence on the pitch will be no easy task.
For now, Ibrahim Maza begins the next chapter of his career in Leverkusen colours, ready to take on new challenges and make his mark on the Champions League stage.
🤝 Ibrahim #Maza wechselt zur Saison 2025/26 von Hertha BSC zu #Bayer04. Der algerische Nationalspieler hat einen Vertrag bis 2030 unterschrieben.
Herzlich willkommen unterm Kreuz, Ibo! ⚫🔴#Maza2030 | #Bayer04 pic.twitter.com/mb5hR4dq6m
— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04fussball) May 1, 2025
