Journalist Says Man City Could “Activate” German Ace’s Release Clause

Man City are considering whether to “activate” the release clause in the contract of Hertha Berlin midfielder Kennet Eichhorn, according to journalist Christian Falk.

Writing on his personal website, CF Bayern InsiderFalk confirmed reports from the UK that the Cityzens are planning to loan back the teenager to Bayer Leverkusen, but he also said that the player will only cost €12m (£10.3m) to buy:

“Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City have the idea to sign Kennet Eichhorn and then loan him back to Bayer Leverkusen. That’s an idea, and there’s a good reason for this. Eichhorn is not allowed to play for Man City, as he’s still 16 years old. So, they have to find a way of saving him for the future, and this method would allow them to do so. Activate his roughly €12m (£10.3m) release clause at Hertha BSC and let him play in the Bundesliga.”

“Normally, I don’t like accusations of the Bundesliga being a “farmer’s league”, but in this case, it could be true! They’d let Eichhorn play until he’s 18 years of age, then he’d be allowed to play in the Premier League for Man City – if he’s good enough! Now, if they want to buy him, they have to guarantee him playing time at another club. Leverkusen would be fine with this!”

Why is he “not allowed” to play for Man City?

As Falk mentions, the Cityzens will have to loan out the player even if they do reach an agreement to sign him over the coming days/weeks.

That is because UK work permit rules do not allow English teams to sign players from abroad who are below the age of 18.

Leverkusen would be the beneficiary of having a talented young player for at least two years before he officially makes the switch to Manchester.

Suitors are queuing around the block for Eichhorn

The teenager has reportedly attracted the attention of at least five other Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle and Tottenham.

Teams in Germany, such as Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig, are also keen on recruiting Eichhorn, but it appears City are now favourites to secure his signature.

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