Chelsea have officially opened direct club-to-club dialogue with Bayer Leverkusen for 18-year-old attacking sensation Kerim Alajbegović, though reports of a done deal or a massive £34 million opening bid remain premature.
Contrary to earlier speculation suggesting a high-value agreement was close, negotiations are currently focused on a lower transfer fee. While the Blues are actively pursuing the Bosnian international, Serie A suitors remain firmly in the mix, leaving the player’s final destination open.
Alajbegović’s stock has risen sharply following a breakout 2025/26 campaign on loan at RB Salzburg and strong performances for Bosnia and Herzegovina on the international stage at the recently concluded 2026 Fifa World Cup. Leverkusen remain open to a sale if their valuation is met, but Chelsea will need to navigate persistent Italian interest to secure the highly-rated prospect’s signature.
Fabrizio Romano clarified that despite widespread rumors of a £34 million proposal, current negotiations are centered around a lower valuation.
