Despite investing 100 million euros, is Bayer Leverkusen still pursuing this valuable find?
Bayer Leverkusen Set to Break Transfer Record with Maghnes Akliouche Deal
Bayer 04 Leverkusen is set to make a significant move in the transfer market, with reports suggesting that they are close to signing Maghnes Akliouche from AS Monaco for a fee around €50 million. This would surpass the club's previous record spending, which was on the acquisitions of Malik Tillman and Jarell Quansah, who cost at least 35 million euros in transfer fees.
The new Leverkusen manager, Erik ten Hag, has given his approval for the transfer of Akliouche, a top attacking talent who finished the 2024/25 season with 7 goals and 12 assists, including a Champions League goal against Barcelona. Despite interest from top clubs like Manchester City, PSG, and Barcelona, Leverkusen is the only club to make a concrete offer for the winger so far.
AS Monaco is open to selling Akliouche if the right offer is made, and it appears that €50 million is the current negotiation target, down from the initial €70 million valuation. Akliouche is still contracted to AS Monaco until June 30, 2028.
Erik ten Hag, in his role as the new coach of Bayer 04 Leverkusen, has demanded four to five high-profile new signings. In addition to Akliouche, the club is reportedly inquiring about a defensive midfielder from Spain.
Bayer 04 Leverkusen CEO Simon Rolfes has spent over 100 million euros on new players, with spending rising. Despite a 3-0 win against an Italian club, Erik ten Hag expressed concerns, indicating that the club is not yet where he wants it to be.
Patrik Schick, meanwhile, has extended his contract with Bayer Leverkusen on a long-term basis, committing to the club for the foreseeable future.
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Bayer 04 Leverkusen, under the guidance of new coach Erik ten Hag, is pursuing high-profile signings, including Maghnes Akliouche, a top attacking talent from European leagues who excelled with 7 goals and 12 assists in the last season. If the transfer goes through for the reported €50 million, it would surpass Leverkusen's previous record of €35 million spent on Malik Tillman and Jarell Quansah.
