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Bayer Leverkusen open contract talks with Ibrahim Maza

·By Paul Lindisfarne
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Bayer Leverkusen open contract talks with Ibrahim Maza

Bayer Leverkusen/X.com

Bayer Leverkusen have begun discussions with Ibrahim Maza over a new contract, with the Bundesliga club keen to secure the attacking midfielder’s future amid growing interest from clubs in England.

Sky Sport journalist Florian Plettenberg reports that the parties are holding concrete talks over an extension beyond Maza’s current deal, which runs until 2030. The discussions also include a potential salary adjustment, reflecting Leverkusen’s view of the 20-year-old as an important part of their plans.

Maza joined Bayer Leverkusen from Hertha Berlin in the summer of 2025 and made an immediate impact. He recorded five goals and six assists in 44 competitive appearances during his debut season, establishing himself as a player with considerable potential.

His performances attracted attention during the summer transfer window, but he ultimately remained at the German club. Interest has continued into the new campaign, with Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City and Atlético Madrid previously linked with the midfielder.

Tottenham have also reportedly entered the picture, while Chelsea and Aston Villa are said to be monitoring his situation. Manchester City are understood to remain interested as well.

The breadth of that reported attention gives Leverkusen an incentive to act early rather than allow uncertainty to develop around the player’s future. An improved contract would recognise his growing importance while strengthening the club’s position should further approaches arrive.

Maza has started the current season with one goal and two assists in five competitive appearances. His ability to operate in attacking midfield and contribute both as a creator and a scorer has helped make him an attractive prospect.

Leverkusen are understood to regard the Algeria international as part of their longer-term project, and negotiations over an extension would reinforce that commitment.

His existing contract means the club are not under immediate pressure to agree a new deal, but the reported discussions suggest they want to reward his progress and provide greater certainty for the years ahead.

No agreement has yet been announced. With several Premier League clubs reportedly tracking him, the outcome of the negotiations could prove important in determining whether Maza remains a central figure at Leverkusen or eventually attracts a substantial offer from elsewhere.