Bayer Leverkusen set to sign Manchester United linked midfielder

Manchester United continue to track emerging talent across Europe as part of their long-term recruitment strategy, with several young prospects identified ahead of future transfer windows.

The club’s scouting network has been active in Germany, where a number of breakthrough stars have caught the attention of top Premier League sides.

Competition for elite teenage midfielders has intensified significantly in recent months, with multiple clubs pushing early to secure deals.

United, however, have not always had a clear run at their primary targets amid growing interest from Bundesliga and European rivals.

Bayer Leverkusen win race for Kennet Eichhorn

One of those long-monitored names has now made a final decision on his next step, with Bayer Leverkusen emerging as the winners in the race for Hertha Berlin’s highly rated defensive midfielder Kennet Eichhorn, as reported by The Athletic.

The Bundesliga champions moved decisively to secure the 16-year-old, edging out competition from clubs in both Germany and England, including Manchester United, who had been monitoring his progress closely.

Leverkusen’s recruitment team, led by Simon Rolfes and Kim Falkenberg, worked quietly but efficiently behind the scenes to complete the deal for one of Europe’s most sought-after teenagers.

The transfer is set to be finalised through the activation of a release clause, allowing Kennet Eichhorn to complete the formalities and link up with his new club once paperwork is signed off.

Eichhorn’s rise has been rapid, having broken into Hertha Berlin’s senior setup during the 2025/26 season and going on to make 17 appearances in the 2. Bundesliga.

His contract at Hertha was understood to run until 2029, with a release clause valued between €10 million and €12 million, reflecting his status as one of the most promising young midfielders in Germany.

The teenager also made history by becoming the youngest player ever to feature in the 2. Bundesliga, underlining just how quickly he has progressed into senior football.

Across the season, he became a regular part of Hertha’s matchday squad, missing only a small number of league games as he established himself as an important rotation option.

Liverpool were also heavily involved in the chase and reportedly tabled a strong proposal, both financially and in terms of project appeal, but the youngster ultimately rejected a move to England at this stage of his development.

Manchester United’s interest, alongside several other top European clubs, was not enough to shift the decision, with Eichhorn instead opting to continue his career in the Bundesliga with Leverkusen.