Chelsea insert themselves into Kerim Alajbegović battle thanks to Alonso request
Bayer Leverkusen youngster Kerim Alajbegović is a target for Chelsea, with Xabi Alonso asking for him specifically.
Faktor report that Chelsea have inserted themselves into the picture for the Bosnian winger, putting a potential move to Atalanta on hold.
Chelsea insert themselves
According to their information, Kerim Alajbegović will leave Bayer Leverkusen this summer. He had been destined for Atalanta, but there may now be a twist in the tale.
Faktor report the that the 18-year-old is now a target for Chelsea. They report that he is the ‘desire of manager Xabi Alonso’. The Blues interest means ‘everything is on hold’ regarding the winger. The belief is that Alajbegović could well end up in England this summer.
A decision about his future is expected to be made in the near future. Alajbegović, for his part, is waiting for a resolution about his next club. In the meantime, he is heading for a short trip to Bugojno, where he is due to be given a ceremonial welcome on Monday after appearing at the World Cup.
World Cup draws interest
The left-winger made four appearances for his nation at the tournament, starting three of four games and scoring in the win over Qatar. That goal only added to the growing interest, and hype, around him. Several Premier League sides have already been credited with an interest.
He is a product of Leverkusen’s youth system but left to join Salzburg in a €2m deal last year. He managed 13 goals and four assists in 44 games for the Austrian side last season, prompting Leverkusen to bring him back this summer in an €8m deal.
But he is expected to swiftly depart again, with Chelsea and Atalanta at the front of the queue. There is no mention of his asking price, but Transfermarkt value him at €22m currently.
Alonso, who of course spent two years as Leverkusen manager, will know him well. And according to Faktor, he wants him to join him at Stamford Bridge this summer.
🇵🇹 Diogo Costa | Chelsea want transfer at €40m ➡️ €20m below player’s clause https://t.co/TA35rLM8oe #cfc
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) July 16, 2026
