Manchester City are reportedly preparing to trigger the release clause of teenage midfield sensation Kennet Eichhornas part of an ambitious long-term development strategy designed by Pep Guardiola.
The 16-year-old Hertha BSC prodigy has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in European football after a historic breakthrough campaign in Germany.
Now, City appear ready to move aggressively before rival clubs can take control of the race.
Guardiola pushing for deal
According to reports in Germany, Guardiola has personally identified Eichhorn as a priority target ahead of the summer transfer window.
Rather than immediately integrating the midfielder into City’s first-team squad, the club have already outlined a detailed development pathway.
The plan would reportedly involve triggering Eichhorn’s release clause before sending him on loan to Bayer 04 Leverkusen for further Bundesliga experience.
That strategy would allow City to secure one of Europe’s most promising midfielders while ensuring he continues playing regularly at a high level before moving to England permanently.
Having followed Manchester City’s evolving recruitment model closely, the club have increasingly prioritised signing elite young talent early before using strategic loan development to accelerate progression.
Record-breaking rise attracting Europe’s elite
Eichhorn’s reputation exploded after he became the youngest goalscorer in 2. Bundesliga history.
At just 16 years and 287 days old, the German midfielder scored against SpVgg Greuther Fürth, immediately intensifying interest from clubs across Europe.
The teenager has already made 18 senior appearances for Hertha despite his age and has established himself as one of the standout talents in Germany’s youth system.
| Kennet Eichhorn 2025/26 Stats | Total |
|---|---|
| Age | 16 |
| Senior appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 2 |
| International level | Germany U17 |
| Contract expires | 2029 |
Source: club and league data – 10 May 2026
Interest is not limited to England.
FC Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are all believed to be monitoring the situation closely.
Affordable clause gives City major opportunity
Despite Eichhorn being contracted until 2029, Hertha may struggle to keep him.
Reports suggest a variable release clause worth between €10 million and €12 million will become active this summer.
The exact value reportedly depends on several factors, including Hertha’s league status and the destination club involved.
For a club with Manchester City’s financial strength, the clause represents a relatively low-risk investment for a player viewed internally as having elite long-term potential.
Leverkusen could play key role
Leverkusen are also pushing strongly for the midfielder and could become central to City’s strategy.
The German champions are said to be willing to offer Eichhorn immediate high-level football, while City’s proposed structure would allow them temporary access to the player without a permanent transfer commitment.
That arrangement could suit all parties involved.
However, it remains too early to know whether Eichhorn himself has decided which pathway he prefers.
What’s next?
Manchester City are expected to intensify discussions once Eichhorn’s release clause officially becomes active this summer.
For Hertha Berlin, losing one of the club’s brightest academy products now appears increasingly likely.
Meanwhile, several of Europe’s biggest clubs remain alert in case City’s proposed loan-development plan collapses.
Could Kennet Eichhorn become Manchester City’s next superstar midfield project?
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