Report: Leverkusen surge ahead in race for Hertha's rising star Ibrahim Maza

The move signals Leverkusen's intent to bolster their squad with young, dynamic players as they navigate a challenging season and speculation surrounding their star player, Florian Wirtz.

According to reports from German outlets Kicker and Bild, Leverkusen have overtaken VfB Stuttgart, who were previously considered the favourites to secure Maza's signature.

Posts on X, indicate that Leverkusen are close to finalising a deal worth approximately 13-14 million euros, with a decision expected within the next 10 days. "Bayer Leverkusen are now the favourites to sign Algerian talent Ibrahim Maza," said a post from @AlgerianFooty, citing Kicker.

Maza has impressed in the 2. Bundesliga, recording 10 goal involvements (goals and assists) in 29 appearances for Hertha. His versatility, flair, and ability to influence games have drawn comparisons to top attacking midfielders, making him a prime target for clubs across Europe.

Despite interest from Manchester City and Atletico Madrid, Maza has expressed a preference to continue his development in Germany, where he can secure regular playing time.

Leverkusen's pursuit of Maza comes amid uncertainty over the future of Florian Wirtz, their 21-year-old talisman. Wirtz, who has contributed nine goals and 10 assists in the Bundesliga this season, is a reported target for Bayern Munich and other European giants.

Leverkusen's CEO, Fernando Carro, has remained optimistic about retaining Wirtz, stating, "There's a very high probability that the player will stay at the club after the current season," in an interview with Sky Germany. However, should Wirtz depart, Maza could serve as a long-term successor, though Leverkusen would likely seek additional reinforcements to fill the void.

Head coach Xabi Alonso, whose own future has been the subject of speculation amid links to Real Madrid, has praised the club's ambition to compete at the highest level. "We have to give everything in the Bundesliga, that's our competition now and our goal," Alonso said after a recent DFB-Pokal defeat, as reported by Yahoo Sports.

His focus remains on challenging Bayern Munich, who lead Leverkusen by six points in the Bundesliga with six matches remaining.

The potential signing of Maza underscores Leverkusen's strategy of investing in youth to sustain their competitiveness. The club have also been linked with other targets, including Arsenal's Jakub Kiwior and Rayo Vallecano's Andrei Rațiu, as they prepare for a possible squad overhaul in the summer. "The team and the club are fundamentally on the right path," Alonso has said, reflecting on Leverkusen's development despite recent setbacks.

For now, Leverkusen fans eagerly await confirmation of Maza's arrival, which could mark the beginning of a new chapter for the club.