Overview
- Multiple outlets, citing Bosnian source Faktor, report that Chelsea have entered talks to sign Kerim Alajbegovic and that manager Xabi Alonso is urging the move; the reports remain unconfirmed by Chelsea or Leverkusen.
- Leverkusen activated a buy‑back in March and signed Alajbegovic to a contract through June 2031, giving the German club formal control of any transfer decision.
- Atalanta had been the leading suitor but those negotiations are said to have stalled after Chelsea’s reported interest, leaving the situation fluid and competitive.
- Media reports cite a roughly €8m figure linked to Leverkusen’s buy‑back but note the club could demand a higher fee for a young player whose value rose after a strong season at Salzburg and a World Cup breakthrough.
- Alajbegovic scored for Bosnia at the 2026 World Cup and produced 13 goals and four assists for Salzburg last season, making him a potential replacement if Chelsea move on Alejandro Garnacho and illustrating Alonso‑led recruitment of young talent.