Bayer 04 Leverkusen sign German teen Kennet Eichhorn

Bayer 04 Leverkusen have secured the signing of 16‑year‑old German defensive midfielder Kennet Eichhorn. The move ends a transfer race that also involved Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea. Eichhorn will join the club from Hertha BSC via a release clause estimated at €8‑9 million. Liverpool had believed they were close to finalising a deal after meeting the clause. Graeme Bailey said the Reds were confident they could persuade Eichhorn to choose Anfield. All Premier League clubs were informed the midfielder would not move to England this summer. Liverpool’s recruitment strategy emphasizes long‑term planning beyond immediate senior arrivals. Andoni Iraola’s side has highlighted its youth development model as a key selling point for young talents. The club’s recent track record of promoting academy players to the first team was cited during talks with Eichhorn’s representatives. Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s pursuit was led by managing director Simon Rolfes and director of football Kim Falkenberg. Leverkusen entered the season as the 2024 Bundesliga champions. The club out‑competed rivals RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund for the teenager’s signature. Florian Plettenberg confirmed the deal, noting that rejections had been sent to all other clubs. Eichhorn’s contract runs until 2031, with a medical to follow soon. The transfer is described as a significant coup for Leverkusen, reflecting their growing status in European football. The player remains a Germany youth international. Liverpool will now turn to other targets as competition for elite teenage prospects intensifies. The missed signing underscores the challenges even top clubs face when courting highly rated youngsters.