Leverkusen is planning a return campaign: Talent Alajbegovic in focus for 2026!

Leverkusen is planning a return campaign: Talent Alajbegovic in focus for 2026!

Kerim Alajbegovic, the talented offensive jewel, moved from Bayer 04 Leverkusen to Red Bull Salzburg a few months ago. The transfer, which became official at the beginning of July this year, cost Salzburg around 2 million euros. The 18-year-old Alajbegovic initially signed a contract until 2028, but this was extended to 2029 at the end of September. Loud Transfer market, Leverkusen also secured a buyback option for 2026 and 2027, which amounts to around 5 to 6 million euros. If Alajbegovic does not establish himself as a regular player by then, the buyback option in 2027 could even become cheaper.

This season, Alajbegovic has already scored six goals and provided one assist in 21 appearances across all competitions. He can also have a say in the Bosnian national team: he has already played four international matches. His market value was estimated at €5 million last September, although he remains on the radar of many European clubs, including the prominent Manchester United.

The way to Salzburg

Bayer Leverkusen's sporting director Simon Rolfes has publicly emphasized that they have great confidence in Alajbegovic and would like to continue to monitor his career. Alajbegovic, who previously scored 16 goals and provided 12 assists in 32 games with Bayer's U19 team, is very happy about the new opportunities in Salzburg. “The decision for Salzburg was the right choice,” he said, and he aims to play internationally and win titles with the club Transfer market.

Rouven Schröder, the sports director at Red Bull Salzburg, describes Alajbegovic as a creative and goal-scoring player, which makes the anticipation even greater. Despite inquiries from other European clubs, the young talent decided to move to Salzburg, which underlines the club's ambition to be at the top in the coming years.

Squad planning and future steps

Bayer Leverkusen is currently busy planning its squad in order to compensate as best as possible for the departures, especially that of former captain Granit Xhaka. Above all, the team needs to strengthen the defensive wing positions. Rolfes, director of football Kim Falkenberg and coach Kasper Hjulmand will actively push forward squad planning from the coming international break in order to start the next title attack, as it is Transfer market reported.

Overall, Alajbegovic's development shows that Salzburg and Leverkusen are finally concentrating on promoting young talent. Going forward, this deal could be hugely significant for both clubs as fans eagerly follow the next steps of the talented striker who is already generating huge expectations.