Softfootball understands that Bayer Leverkusen have activated an €8 million buy back clause to re-sign promising winger Kerim Alajbegovic from RB Salzburg, with the move set to take effect in the summer of 2026. This was reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on his official X account.
Romano shared:
Understand Bayer Leverkusen have activated the buy back clause for Bosnian gem Kerim Alajbegovic! €8m deal completed to re-sign 18 year old talent from RB Salzburg.
This move comes shortly after Leverkusen’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League following a 2–0 defeat to Arsenal, further emphasizing the club’s intent to strengthen their squad pipeline.
The 18-year-old Bosnian talent, who stands at 1.86m, originally came through Leverkusen’s academy before joining Salzburg in July 2025. During his time there, he impressed at youth level, scoring 12 goals in 24 appearances, which has prompted Leverkusen to bring him back as part of their long-term development strategy.
The decision reflects the club’s growing focus on nurturing young talent and reintegrating players who have progressed elsewhere. Alajbegovic is expected to be gradually introduced into the first-team setup under manager Xabi Alonso as Leverkusen continue to build for the future.
In addition, Leverkusen have reportedly reached a verbal agreement to sign young striker Aleksa Damjanović from Red Star Belgrade.
