gettyimages 2267978456
Photo: Getty Images
Arsenal are reportedly among the clubs considering a summer move for Bayer Leverkusen wonderkid Kerim Alajbegovic.
The 18-year-old joined Red Bull Salzburg on a permanent deal from Bayer Leverkusen last summer.
Follow our LIVE Arsenal transfer updates here!
However, the Bundesliga side activated a buy-back clause worth around €8m, meaning Alajbegovic is set to return to Leverkusen on July 1 following an impressive season in Austria.
The highly-rated forward registered 13 goals and four assists in 44 appearances across all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign.
ADVERTISEMENT
GettyImages 2234526222 1024x683 1
Despite recently signing a five-year contract with Bayer Leverkusen, several European clubs are closely monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window.
More Arsenal news
Arsenal hold talks with Alajbegovic’s camp
gettyimages 2269278728
According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal are among the clubs interested in signing Alajbegovic this summer.
ADVERTISEMENT
Premier League rivals Chelsea, Aston Villa and Manchester United are also tracking the Bosnia international, while Inter Milan, Roma and Napoli are among the interested clubs in Serie A.
It is understood Arsenal have already held talks with the player’s representatives ahead of a potential move.
However, it remains unclear whether Alajbegovic would be open to a switch to the Premier League.
ADVERTISEMENT
imago1075009502
The report claims the 18-year-old currently views a move to Serie A as the ideal next step in his development, which could reduce Arsenal’s chances of securing a deal.
Bayer Leverkusen have included Alajbegovic in their plans for the 2026/27 season, although they could be willing to sell if offers in the region of €35m arrive.
The German club are aware of the growing interest in the youngster, meaning a summer departure cannot be ruled out.
What happens next?
Arsenal are set to step up their plans as the summer transfer window approaches, with the club continuing to hold internal discussions over potential targets. Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta are both believed to be actively assessing several options as preparations for next season continue behind the scenes.
The Gunners are expected to be among the busiest Premier League clubs this summer, with several positions under review. Any move will ultimately depend on availability, financial conditions and how Arsenal prioritise their targets during the transfer window.
ADVERTISEMENT
The bigger picture
Arsenal’s recruitment team continues to focus on players who fit the club’s long-term strategy under Mikel Arteta. Technical quality, tactical intelligence and versatility remain key attributes as the club assesses potential additions ahead of the new campaign.
141a6580 803d 11f0 81d5 070181397ef5
The club has consistently looked to add players capable of improving both the starting XI and overall squad depth, particularly with the demands of competing in the Premier League and Champions League. Arsenal are expected to strengthen multiple areas of the squad this summer and continue to monitor opportunities across Europe and South America.
Arsenal are expected to make several important decisions regarding the composition of the squad this summer. While strengthening key areas remains a priority, the club could also consider offers for certain players if it helps fund new arrivals and maintain financial flexibility.
Securing the futures of key players remains just as important as making new signings. Arsenal have worked hard to build one of the strongest squads in Europe, and maintaining stability within the group will be crucial as the club looks to continue competing for major honours.
Our View
If the reports are accurate, this would appear to be a move that makes sense for Arsenal. The club are expected to strengthen the attacking department this summer, and Kerim Alajbegovic’s profile seems to align with the type of recruitment strategy Mikel Arteta has favoured in recent years.
fc salzburg v fc porto uefa europa league 2025 26 league phase md1 scaled 1
Whether Arsenal decide to advance their interest in the Bosnia international remains to be seen, but it is easy to understand why a player of his calibre is being linked with a move to North London.
For more Arsenal transfer updates, follow our LIVE blog!