Ibrahim Maza is in advanced negotiations with a top-flight Bundesliga club as interest grows around the Hertha Berlin star following an impressive debut season in Germany’s second division.
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder, who made his international debut for Algeria last October, has emerged as one of the brightest young prospects in German football.
A standout performer for Hertha Berlin in Bundesliga 2, Maza has registered five goals and five assists in 32 appearances, playing a central role in the club’s campaign and attracting the attention of top-tier sides.
According to German outlet Kicker, Maza is now the subject of serious interest from Bayer Leverkusen.
The reigning Bundesliga champions view the young Algerian as a potential long-term replacement for Florian Wirtz, who is widely expected to leave for one of Europe’s elite clubs in the upcoming transfer window.
Leverkusen, led by manager Xabi Alonso, are reportedly prepared to offer between €11 million and €15 million to secure Maza’s services.
Talks have already begun between Leverkusen and the player’s representatives, with the club keen to present a clear development plan that will allow Maza to continue his upward trajectory.
The player, who was born in Berlin and previously represented Germany at youth level before committing to Algeria, is said to favour a move that offers continuity and growth rather than immediate exposure at one of Europe’s biggest institutions.
While Maza has also attracted attention from the Premier League—Manchester City and Newcastle United are said to be monitoring his progress—as well as La Liga giants Atlético Madrid, it is the Bundesliga that currently appears to be the likeliest next step in his career.
Leverkusen, however, are not alone in the chase. VfB Stuttgart, a club that has been following Maza closely since last summer, remain firmly in contention.
The southern German side has reportedly maintained strong relations with the player’s entourage and could return with a revised offer in the coming weeks.
Stuttgart, who have enjoyed a resurgence in the Bundesliga this season, are understood to be particularly focused on convincing the midfielder of their long-term vision for his development.
The battle for Maza’s signature highlights the growing recognition of his potential. At just 19, the midfielder has demonstrated maturity and creativity well beyond his years. His versatility and technical skill have made him a vital asset for Hertha Berlin, despite the club’s position outside the top flight.
For Algeria, Maza’s rapid rise has also been significant. After switching international allegiance from Germany, he earned his first cap for the Fennecs in October and is seen as a key figure for the national team moving forward.
With the summer transfer window approaching, the coming weeks are likely to be decisive for Maza’s future.
Both Leverkusen and Stuttgart must now present compelling cases, not only financially but also in terms of how the player fits into their sporting projects.
What remains certain is that Ibrahim Maza is no longer under the radar. The race is well and truly on for one of Germany’s most promising young midfielders.
