Bayer Leverkusen has signed youth talent Kennet Eichhorn from Hertha BSC after activating the 16-year-old midfielder's release clause. Eichhorn, who still had a contract with Hertha BSC until 2029, is now part of the Bundesliga club. Simon Rolfes, Bayer Leverkusen's sporting director, expressed his excitement: "With Kennet, we now have one of the best German talents in our ranks." The player signed a long-term contract in Leverkusen, although the exact terms were not disclosed. According to media reports, the release clause was between eight and nine million euros.

For weeks, speculation surrounded the future of the coveted talent, as major clubs like Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and Liverpool also showed interest. After these clubs dropped out of the race, it seemed to come down to a duel between Bayer Leverkusen and RB Leipzig. Leverkusen had also recently hired former Berlin youth coach Konstaninos Kotsifakis, who had worked with Eichhorn at Hertha.

Eichhorn played 16 matches for Hertha BSC last season and became the youngest player in the history of the 2. Bundesliga with his appearance against Karlsruher SC. He also set the record for the youngest goalscorer in the league with his goal against Greuther Fürth. Bayer Leverkusen has announced a restructuring after missing out on the Champions League last season and recently introduced Carles Martínez Novell as their new coach.