Algerian international Ibrahim Maza, an 18-year-old emerging talent from Hertha Berlin, has already caught the attention of several Premier League clubs, just weeks after making his senior debut for Algeria. Maza, a midfielder known for his skill and vision, has attracted serious interest from West Ham, Brentford, and Leicester City, all of whom see the youngster’s potential to thrive in the English top flight.
Maza made his international debut on October 10, coming on as a substitute during Algeria’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Togo in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers.
His selection to the national team comes amid a strong season at club level, where he has become a mainstay in Hertha Berlin’s lineup in Bundesliga 2.
So far, he has made 11 starts, notching up three goals and two assists, performances that have highlighted his promising talent and maturity on the pitch.
According to Caught Offside, the young midfielder’s early success has quickly turned heads in England, where Premier League scouts are already monitoring his progress closely.
West Ham’s head coach, Julen Lopetegui, is reportedly highly impressed by Maza, believing the Algerian’s style could be an ideal fit for the physical demands of the Premier League.
Leicester City and Brentford are also interested, with both clubs seeing potential in adding the versatile midfielder to their rosters.
Potential January Move with High Price Tag
The January transfer window could see serious moves made to secure Maza’s signature, but interested clubs may face a significant financial outlay.
Hertha Berlin is reportedly valuing the player at between €20 million and €25 million, a considerable price for a player still early in his career.
However, his ability to deliver consistently for Hertha has given Premier League scouts reason to believe he may be worth the investment.
Maza’s potential transfer to West Ham, in particular, could be an intriguing storyline.
The Hammers currently sit 14th in the Premier League, and Lopetegui, who is keen on rejuvenating the squad, sees Maza as a player who could contribute to their turnaround.
However, uncertainty remains regarding Lopetegui’s own future at the club, which could impact any move for Maza if managerial changes take place before January.
For Maza, the prospect of moving to England offers both opportunity and risk.
Transitioning from Berlin to the fast-paced environment of the Premier League would be a major leap for the 18-year-old, requiring adaptation to a new country and league.
While the interest is flattering, Maza will need to weigh the benefits of developing further with Hertha against the demands of the Premier League.
Premier League Clubs’ History with Algerian Talent
Interest in Maza also reflects the growing appeal of Algerian players in the Premier League.
Leicester City, one of the clubs interested in the young midfielder, enjoyed great success with Algerian stars Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani, while Said Benrahma has featured for both Brentford and West Ham.
For Maza, this history could serve as encouragement, showing that Algerian internationals have the potential to make a significant impact in English football.
As the January transfer window approaches, Ibrahim Maza’s future is one to watch, with several top-flight English clubs eager to bring his talent into the Premier League.
Whether he stays in Berlin or takes the leap to England, Maza’s rise is an exciting prospect for both Algerian football and the European game.
🚨Ibrahim Maza intéresse 3 clubs de Premier League : West Ham, Brentford et leicester. 🏴
Les clubs pourraient débourser entre 20 et 25 millions pour l’international Algérien.
{@caughtoffside} pic.twitter.com/mBMCRApobg
— Algérie Football Média 🇩🇿 (@DZFOOTBALLDZ) November 2, 2024
