Bayer Leverkusen have reached an advanced agreement to sign highly rated Malian youth international N’Djicoura Raymond Bomba, in a deal that underscores the club’s continued investment in young talent.
According to Sky reports, the Bundesliga side have all but finalised terms with Bomba, who is currently on the books at the Bamako Sports Centre in Mali.
The transfer, valued at €1.5 million, will see the promising midfielder officially join Leverkusen once he turns 18 in March 2026.
Though the deal has yet to be formally announced, sources close to the negotiations confirm that the paperwork is largely complete and only pending final regulatory approval and the player’s eligibility for transfer under FIFA guidelines related to minors.
Bomba, widely regarded as one of Mali’s brightest young prospects, has been attracting attention from several European clubs over the past year.
Known for his technical ability, tactical maturity, and composure in midfield, the teenager has already made a strong impression at youth level in his home country, prompting scouts from across Europe to monitor his progress closely.
Leverkusen’s successful pursuit of Bomba is seen as a significant coup, especially as clubs in France and Spain were also reportedly tracking the youngster.
The German club, now managed by former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, appear determined to build on their recent successes by laying the groundwork for the future through astute recruitment.
Although Bomba will not be eligible to join the squad until 2026, Leverkusen’s commitment to securing the deal well in advance signals the high regard in which they hold the young midfielder.
It also reflects a growing trend among top European sides of identifying and securing elite youth talent before their value surges on the open market.
The transfer is being managed in full compliance with FIFA regulations, which prohibit the international transfer of players under the age of 18, except under specific circumstances.
As such, Bomba will remain in Mali with the Bamako Sports Centre until he reaches the age of majority.
For now, the focus remains on his continued development in familiar surroundings, where he is expected to play a pivotal role for both club and country at the youth level over the next year and a half.
Coaches in Mali have praised his discipline and work ethic, and there is growing anticipation around his long-term potential in both domestic and international football.
The move also highlights Leverkusen’s expanding global scouting network, particularly in Africa, where they have increasingly focused their efforts in recent transfer windows.
With Ten Hag at the helm, the club appears committed to blending youth and experience, with Bomba potentially forming part of the club’s future midfield core.
While the footballing world will have to wait until 2026 to see Bomba in a Bayer Leverkusen shirt, the deal already represents a strong statement of intent from the German side and offers a glimpse into their forward-thinking approach under new leadership.
