Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have increased their efforts to track Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder Ibrahim Maza, with the North London clubs monitoring the 20-year-old’s progress during the early stages of the 2026/27 campaign. According to reporting from TEAMtalk, the Premier League rivals are among a growing list of suitors evaluating the Algeria international, who has become a subject of discussion within scouting departments across the division. While neither club has lodged a formal bid, the intensification of their scouting indicates both are refining their recruitment strategies with an eye on the midfielder's development under head coach Carles Martínez Novell.
Emerging production in the Bundesliga
Maza has established a reputation for technical efficiency since his transfer from Hertha Berlin to Bayer Leverkusen in July 2025. His transition to the Bundesliga side has been marked by statistical consistency; reports note he currently averages 2.25 successful dribbles per 90 minutes while creating 3.25 chances per game. His contribution extends to defensive duties, with data showing he averages 4.75 duels won and 3.75 recoveries per game. These metrics underline his utility as a modern attacking midfielder capable of operating in the half-spaces, a profile that has drawn plaudits since his debut at Hertha Berlin in 2023. Leverkusen’s coaching staff, including former manager Kasper Hjulmand, have previously highlighted his technical proficiency and assertiveness, descriptions that remain relevant as he continues his second season at the BayArena.
Competitive market and tactical fit
The interest from North London reflects the broader appraisal of Maza's potential by major English clubs. Arsenal, having reinforced their squad significantly during the summer with signings such as Bruno Guimaraes, are currently assessing the midfielder as a potential long-term addition, though reporting suggests the club's midfield depth and focus on alternative areas may relegate him to a non-priority target. Tottenham Hotspur, meanwhile, are integrating several high-profile arrivals under Roberto De Zerbi, including Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. The club's interest is viewed as part of their ongoing squad rebuild.
Competition for the Algerian is significant, with Manchester City, Chelsea, and Aston Villa also linked. Reports from Germany indicate that Manchester City have already established contact with the player's representatives, though the Citizens possess a crowded attacking midfield including Rayan Cherki and Phil Foden, which complicates a clear pathway to the first team. Manchester United have also been cited as an interested party, specifically viewing Maza's physical and technical profile as a potential succession option given the contract uncertainty surrounding their captain, Bruno Fernandes. These clubs must now navigate a complex recruitment landscape where existing tactical structures and squad depth play a significant role in determining whether interest will materialise into a concrete pursuit.
Leverkusen stance and valuation
Any prospective deal is complicated by Bayer Leverkusen’s firm stance on the player's future. Maza is under contract at the BayArena until 2030, a duration that provides the Bundesliga club with substantial negotiation leverage. Reports from various outlets, corroborated by The Hard Tackle, place the asking price for the 20-year-old between €65 million and €70 million. This figure is significantly higher than his recent market valuations, reflecting Leverkusen's desire to retain the playmaker as a central figure in their current project. As the mid-season window approaches, interested parties must balance this asking price against their own financial constraints and immediate tactical requirements, with no indication that Leverkusen will consider a sale below their established valuation.
