Arsenal are among a host of clubs monitoring Bayer Leverkusen winger Kerim Alajbegovic, with the 18-year-old Bosnia international attracting significant interest from the Premier League and Serie A. Leverkusen sold Alajbegovic to Red Bull Salzburg last year but exercised a buy-back clause this summer for £7 million after an impressive campaign. However, the teenager's performances in Austria and for Bosnia have prompted several top European sides to test Leverkusen's resolve.
Premier League and Serie A Interest
Champions Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Leeds United have already held talks with Alajbegovic's representatives, alongside Italian giants Napoli, Roma, and Inter Milan. The clubs are reportedly considering offers of around £18 million, which would represent a substantial profit for Leverkusen if they decide to sell.
World Cup Stage
Alajbegovic has been named in Bosnia's squad for the World Cup and is tipped to make a significant impact in Group C against Canada, Switzerland, and Qatar. Born in Cologne to Bosnian parents, the winger is known for his pace, skill, and versatility across the forward line.
His father and agent, Semin, was also a professional footballer who spent his entire career in Germany's lower leagues. Leverkusen are keen to retain the young talent, but further discussions are expected in the coming weeks as the club weighs its options.
Arsenal's Josh Nichols Departs
In related news, Arsenal right-back Josh Nichols has left the club to join Croatian side NK Kustosija, a club renowned for developing young players and selling them to top European leagues. The 19-year-old, who made his Arsenal debut against Bolton in the Carabao Cup in 2024, expressed his gratitude in a heartfelt statement.
"This hasn't just been a team I've played for. It's been a second family, a place where I started as a little boy, made lifelong memories, and shared unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch with my brothers!" Nichols said. "Over the past decade, I've experienced the highs, the lows, the victories, the disappointments, and everything in between. Through it all, my love for this club has never changed. Wearing this badge has always been an honour, and every time I stepped onto the pitch, I gave everything I had because this club means so much to me."
