Bayer Leverkusen are poised to bolster their squad with the imminent arrival of Ibrahim Maza from Hertha Berlin, as reported by multiple sources.

The 19-year-old midfield prodigy is set to pen a deal until 2030 with the reigning Bundesliga champions, who will activate a variable release clause estimated at €12 million. With medical tests scheduled in the coming days, the official confirmation of the move is only a matter of time.

Young Starlet With Big Potential

Ibrahim Maza’s meteoric rise through the German footballing system has not gone unnoticed. After dazzling performances with Hertha Berlin throughout the 2024/25 campaign, the midfielder has now earned his big move. While VfB Stuttgart were also in contention for his signature, particularly to fill the void left by the departing Enzo Millot, Maza ultimately opted for a switch to the BayArena.

Choosing the Bundesliga holders is not just a step up in stature but also a vote of confidence in Xabi Alonso’s system, which continues to nurture young talent. The acquisition of Maza adds yet another promising dimension to a squad already buzzing with flair and precision.

Strategic Fit Alongside Wirtz

Leverkusen’s interest in Maza goes beyond short-term reinforcement. The club views the Algerian international as a complementary force to current midfield orchestrator Florian Wirtz — and perhaps even his eventual successor.

With Wirtz attracting interest from Europe’s elite and a potential departure likely by 2026, Maza’s signing appears to be both a contingency and a future-proofing decision. The 19-year-old’s ability to influence games from multiple positions across the midfield offers tactical flexibility and seamless integration into Leverkusen’s dynamic playstyle.

From Local Pitches to Bundesliga Lights

Maza’s football journey began in Berlin’s local football scene with Reinickendorf Füchse before Hertha Berlin scouts spotted his talent. Joining Hertha’s academy at 11, he rapidly progressed through the youth ranks, eventually making his senior debut in the closing stages of the 2022/23 season against Bayern Munich.

His first professional goal came shortly after, as he netted against Wolfsburg on the final day of the season, becoming the youngest goalscorer in Hertha’s history at just 17 years, six months, and three days old.

Battling Setbacks, Rising Stronger

Following Hertha’s relegation from the top flight, Maza faced adversity early in the 2023/24 campaign, sidelined by a knee injury that kept him out until Matchday 21. However, he rebounded with resilience, becoming a regular starter and contributing five goals and five assists in the current season. His strong return has not only lifted Hertha to mid-table stability but also reignited interest from top clubs.

In total, Maza boasts seven goals and three assists in 32 appearances this season, a testament to his growth and consistency despite a turbulent year.

International Allegiance and Comparisons

Though born in Germany, Maza pledged his international future to Algeria, his father’s birthplace, after representing Germany at U18, U19, and U20 levels. He has since earned two caps for the Desert Foxes, debuting in a commanding 5-1 victory over Togo, where he shared the field with luminaries like Riyad Mahrez and Bundesliga counterparts Ramy Bensebaini and Farès Chaïbi.

His playing style draws comparisons with former Bundesliga magician Henrikh Mkhitaryan. Known for his deft footwork, long-range strikes, and vision, Maza is capable of unlocking defences and shifting momentum — qualities that have made him one of the most highly-rated young players in German football.

Praise From Mentors and Teammates

The buzz around Maza is reflected in the admiration from those within Hertha Berlin. Club captain Toni Leistner once remarked: “The kid’s full of confidence. He takes a sip of water, then gets straight back to it. He’s a real talent.”

Former head coach Pál Dardai also shared his assessment: “He’s invaluable when he comes on as a sub in the 60th or 70th minute. He knows he has to fight when all the others are fit, but you can see that’s what he’s willing to do.”

These endorsements underline the teenager’s mentality and willingness to learn, traits that will serve him well at a title-chasing club like Leverkusen.