Transfer
Bayer Leverkusen loses teen star Alajbegović to Juventus Turin
Bayer Leverkusen loses Kerim Alajbegović to Juventus Turin for up to €35M. The 18-year-old becomes the Bundesliga's most expensive player without a league appearance.
Bayer Leverkusen loses teen star Alajbegović to Juventus Turin Bayer Leverkusen has lost one of its biggest talents: Kerim Alajbegović (18) is moving to Juventus Turin for a fee of up to €35 million. The Bosnian international signs a five-year contract with the Italian club.
Why is Alajbegović joining Juventus? The offensive player turned down an offer from Chelsea, even though the English club was willing to pay up to €40 million. Juventus secured his signature with a guarantee of a starting spot as a number 10. Alajbegović never played for Leverkusen's first team but gained experience at RB Salzburg and became a World Cup star for Bosnia this summer.
What does the transfer mean for Leverkusen? The club receives a record fee for an 18-year-old in Bundesliga history. The base transfer fee is just over €30 million, with bonuses potentially taking it to €35 million. Leverkusen would have liked to integrate the player into the first team but couldn't guarantee a starting spot.
What's next for Bayer Leverkusen? After losing Alajbegović, Leverkusen faces the challenge of replacing the young talent. The team finished last season in 5th place with 52 points and now has time to prepare for the new season. The next match is on February 13, 2027, against RB Leipzig.
