Bayer Leverkusen have reportedly shown 'concrete interest' in signing Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken.
The German club are preparing for a new era under former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, who was recently appointed as Xabi Alonso's replacement.
With a tough act to follow, Ten Hag will be keen to strengthen in a number of areas this summer, including in the goalkeeping department.
Backup goalkeeper Matej Kovar is set to leave in the summer transfer window, meaning the club needs to sign a new goalkeeper to compete with experienced shot-stopper Lukas Hradecky.
Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken in action on December 18, 2024© Imago
Leverkusen want Flekken
According to Kicker, Leverkusen are showing 'concrete interest' in signing Brentford's Flekken as a replacement for Kovar.
The report claims that the German club have been working on a potential deal for more than a month after identifying Flekken as their top goalkeeper target.
Leverkusen are looking to secure Flekken's signature for a €15m (12.6m) fee, but it remains to be seen whether Brentford will demand a higher fee for a player who is under contract until the summer of 2027, with an option to extend by a further year.
Thomas Frank's side will also have to find a suitable replacement before they consider sanctioning the Dutchman's departure.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank looks on on May 25, 2025© Imago
How important is Flekken to Brentford?
The 31-year-old has established himself as Brentford's undisputed number one following his arrival from Bundesliga side Freiburg last summer.
The Netherlands international has made 77 competitive appearances for the Bees, including eight clean sheets in 37 Premier League matches in the 2024-25 campaign.
As per FBref, Flekken pulled off more saves (150) than any other goalkeeper in the division in the 2024-25 season, while he also finished in sixth spot for the highest save percentage.
Flekken ultimately played a key role in Brentford's top-half finish and would leave a considerable void if he were to depart this summer.
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