Ibrahim Maza is on the verge of completing a high-profile transfer from Hertha Berlin to Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, marking a significant turning point in the young Algerian’s career.
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder, who has impressed with Hertha in the 2. Bundesliga this season, is expected to finalise his move in the coming weeks.
Multiple sources in Germany, including BILD and Sky Sports, have reported that the transfer is close to completion, with Leverkusen winning the race for Maza’s signature ahead of several European giants.
Maza’s performances for Hertha have not gone unnoticed. In a campaign where he featured in 32 matches, the Berlin-born prospect recorded seven goals and five assists, establishing himself as one of the league’s most promising young players.
His consistent output and technical flair caught the attention of a host of clubs, including English champions Manchester City and Bundesliga rivals Stuttgart. However, it is Leverkusen who have acted decisively to secure the deal.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Thursday that an agreement in principle has been reached between the two clubs, with the transfer fee expected to fall between €12 million and €14 million.
The sizeable investment underlines Leverkusen’s belief in Maza’s potential and their desire to integrate youthful creativity into their title-winning squad.
The timing of Maza’s arrival could prove crucial. Leverkusen, fresh off their historic unbeaten league campaign, are preparing for a summer of transition.
Midfield star Florian Wirtz, one of the standout performers this season, has been heavily linked with a move away, potentially opening up an opportunity for Maza to earn immediate minutes and make an impact at the highest level.
A key question, however, remains unresolved. Will Maza be playing under the guidance of Xabi Alonso? The Spanish manager, who led Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title with an attacking brand of football, is a prime candidate to replace Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid.
Alonso’s future is expected to be clarified next week, but regardless of his decision, Maza’s move to the BayArena appears set to proceed.
For the Algerian international, this represents a bold step forward. Leaving the relative stability of Hertha Berlin, where he developed through the club’s youth system, Maza is now embracing the demands of top-flight football in a squad with Champions League ambitions.
Leverkusen’s dynamic and forward-thinking playing style is well suited to Maza’s attributes including vision, agility, and a keen eye for goal, and could offer the perfect environment for his continued development.
His imminent transfer also highlights Leverkusen’s growing commitment to nurturing emerging talent as they prepare for a new era following their domestic success.
Should Alonso stay, Maza would benefit from one of the most admired tactical minds in European football. If not, he will still join a club riding high in confidence with a clear structure and vision for sustained success.
As the summer window approaches, all signs point to a new chapter in Ibrahim Maza’s journey. One that could see him shine on the biggest stages of European football and perhaps shape the future of Bayer Leverkusen’s midfield.
🚨🔴⚫️ Bayer Leverkusen have agreed deal in principle to sign Ibrahim Maza from Hertha Berlin.
Maza will sign soon for transfer fee around €10m, as BILD reports. pic.twitter.com/rZUEYop9TY
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 24, 2025
