Aston Villa have joined the growing list of clubs interested in signing Bayer Leverkusen youngster Kerim Alajbegovic after the Bosnia and Herzegovina forward continued his rapid rise with an eye-catching World Cup campaign.
The 18-year-old has emerged as one of the tournament's breakthrough stars, attracting attention from clubs across England and Italy following his impressive performances for Bosnia.
According to Corriere della Sera, Aston Villa are now actively exploring a move, although they face competition from Newcastle United and Atalanta for one of Europe's most highly-rated young attackers.
World Cup performances raise Alajbegovic's value
Alajbegovic's reputation has grown significantly over the past fortnight after scoring a spectacular goal against Qatar to help Bosnia secure third place in their World Cup group.
The teenager's strike also saw him become the eighth-youngest goalscorer in World Cup history, further increasing interest in his future.
Bosnia could still qualify for the Round of 32, meaning Alajbegovic has another opportunity to enhance both his profile and market value on football's biggest stage.
Aston Villa face competition from Italy and England
Villa are not alone in pursuing the Bayer Leverkusen prospect.
Atalanta have made the Bosnia international a priority target as sporting director Cristiano Guintoli begins shaping a new long-term project in Bergamo. The Serie A club believe Alajbegovic's ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations makes him an ideal fit for their recruitment strategy.
Newcastle United also remain interested, while Sunderland and Roma were previously linked with the teenager before his impressive World Cup displays elevated his standing even further.
Leverkusen, meanwhile, are reportedly valuing the youngster at around €25 million, although that figure could rise if he continues to impress during the tournament.
Why Aston Villa are monitoring the teenager
Having followed Aston Villa’s recruitment under Unai Emery, the club have consistently targeted talented young players capable of developing into first-team regulars. Alajbegovic fits that profile, combining technical quality with the confidence to influence matches against elite opposition despite his age.
| Kerim Alajbegovic Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 |
| Club | Bayer Leverkusen |
| Position | Attacking midfielder / Winger |
| Reported valuation | €25 million |
Source: Club information and tournament data – 26 June 2026
Several clubs are monitoring the situation closely, while Alajbegovic’s performances during the remainder of the World Cup could significantly influence both the level of interest and Bayer Leverkusen’s asking price.
Key Points
- Aston Villa are interested in Bayer Leverkusen youngster Kerim Alajbegovic.
- Newcastle United and Atalanta are also pursuing the 18-year-old.
- Alajbegovic became the eighth-youngest goalscorer in World Cup history.
- Bayer Leverkusen reportedly value the Bosnia international at €25 million.
- His valuation could increase if Bosnia progress further in the tournament.
What's next?
Alajbegovic's immediate focus remains Bosnia's World Cup campaign, with further progress in the tournament likely to increase competition for his signature. Aston Villa are expected to continue monitoring the teenager before deciding whether to make a formal move later in the transfer window, while Bayer Leverkusen remain in a strong negotiating position.
Could Kerim Alajbegovic become Aston Villa's next exciting young signing, or will another European club win the race for the Bosnia international?
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