Bayer Leverkusen Secure Kennet Eichhorn from Hertha Berlin

Bayer Leverkusen have activated Kennet Eichhorn's release clause and signed the 16‑year‑old midfielder, outbidding Manchester City and Liverpool. The German club will trigger a clause reported between €8 million and €9 million. Eichhorn, a Germany youth international from Hertha Berlin, is regarded as one of Europe's top teenage talents. He had been linked with Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, Manchester City and Liverpool, with Liverpool reportedly offering a deal before arranging a loan to Leverkusen. Leverkusen’s managing director Simon Rolfes and director of football Kim Falkenberg led the pursuit and secured the contract. Eichhorn is set to sign a five‑year deal and will be developed by newly appointed manager Carles Martinez, who has a roster of more experienced midfielders. Leverkusen endured a difficult Bundesliga campaign last season, missing Champions League qualification and prompting the dismissal of former manager Kasper Hjulmand. The club expects further signings and aims to retain key players such as Ibrahim Maza, who is on Manchester City’s radar.