Manchester City have expressed strong interest in signing rising Algerian talent Ibrahim Maza, intensifying the transfer battle for the Hertha Berlin midfielder, according to reports in Germany.
The 18-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough season in the 2. Bundesliga, featuring in 32 matches for Hertha and contributing seven goals and five assists.
His performances have attracted widespread attention, with Bayer Leverkusen previously seen as the frontrunners for his signature.
German outlet Kicker reports that Leverkusen are in advanced talks with both Hertha Berlin and Maza’s representatives.
The reigning Bundesliga champions, coached by Xabi Alonso, view the young midfielder as a potential successor to Florian Wirtz, who is himself being linked with a move away—most notably to Manchester City.
Negotiations with Leverkusen are said to involve a transfer fee ranging between €13 million and €14 million, although Maza’s release clause reportedly stands at €9.5 million.
Leverkusen have even put forward the prospect of immediate first-team involvement for Maza beginning next season, underscoring their commitment to securing the deal.
However, the situation has shifted with Bild reporting that Manchester City have now officially entered the race.
The Premier League champions, who may soon face the departure of Kevin De Bruyne, are actively scouting midfield reinforcements and view Maza as a long-term investment.
City’s interest is being driven internally, with sporting director Hugo Viana reportedly placing Maza on the club’s summer shortlist.
The plan would be to integrate him gradually into Pep Guardiola’s system—an approach the club has used with success for previous young signings.
While Bayer Leverkusen still appear to hold a slight edge due to the advanced stage of their talks and the promise of immediate playing time, Manchester City’s vast financial power and global appeal make them formidable competition.
🔴 Manchester City est confiant de recruter Ibrahim Maza ! 🇩🇿🏴@Plettigoal pic.twitter.com/jOMUYUxz2n
— 𝘼𝙇𝙂𝙀𝙍𝙄𝘼𝘾𝙏𝙐𝙁𝙊𝙊𝙏 🇩🇿 (@algeriactufoot) April 19, 2025
The Premier League club’s ability to develop young talent under Guardiola adds further weight to their proposal.
Other clubs such as FC Porto, AC Milan, and VfB Stuttgart are also monitoring the situation, though the decision now seems likely to come down to a choice between the German and English champions.
Maza, who recently made his international debut for Algeria after Germany failed in their efforts to recruit him, has become one of the most sought-after young midfielders in Europe.
His next move is poised to define the next chapter in a career already attracting continental acclaim.
