Atletico Madrid Renew Interest in Bayer Leverkusen’s Ibrahim Maza
Atletico Madrid have revived their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Maza, with Diego Simeone seeking another attacking option in the centre of the pitch. The Spanish club have made contact with Leverkusen to register their interest in the 20-year-old Algeria international, but any deal would require a major fee and would run against the Bundesliga side’s current plans.
Leverkusen do not intend to sell Maza, who only joined the club from Hertha Berlin in the summer of 2025 in a reported €12 million move. His contract runs until June 2030, while his rapid rise since arriving has pushed his likely valuation towards €70 million.
Atletico retain long-standing interest
Madrid’s admiration for Maza predates his Leverkusen transfer. Atletico are understood to have offered €35 million for him during his time at Hertha Berlin, but that proposal was rejected.
Rather than ending their pursuit, Atletico have continued to monitor his progress. Their renewed approach comes as Maza establishes himself as a regular in Leverkusen’s side and attracts attention from leading clubs across Europe.
He has recorded one goal and two assists from four starts this season. Illness kept him out of Leverkusen’s Europa League opening match, but he has otherwise become an established starter.
Leverkusen preparing improved contract
Arsenal and Manchester City also showed serious interest in Maza during the summer transfer window. Leverkusen resisted those approaches and made clear that a sale was not under consideration.
The club are now attempting to strengthen their position further by discussing a new agreement with Maza’s representatives. Initial negotiations began last week, although no formal extension has been completed.
Leverkusen want the midfielder to commit beyond 2030 and are prepared to offer a substantial increase on his current salary of €3 million per season. The improved financial package is intended to protect one of the club’s most valuable young players amid growing interest from Atletico and the Premier League.
