Leverkusen Open Maza Contract Talks Amid Premier League Interest

Bayer Leverkusen have taken another step towards securing Ibrahim Maza's future, with Sky Sport Germany confirming that talks over a new contract have already begun.

The 20-year-old is reportedly open to extending his stay at the BayArena, despite growing interest from several Premier League clubs.

For Leverkusen, it is an encouraging development at a time when negotiations with another of their young attacking talents, Christian Kofane, have become increasingly complicated.

Leverkusen Make Their Move

According to a previous report from Sport Bild, Leverkusen were preparing to reward Maza with a significantly improved contract following his impressive first season at the club.

The Algerian international is already tied to Bayer until 2030. Still, sporting director Simon Rolfes wants to extend that agreement while bringing his salary in line with his growing importance to the squad.

Sky's latest information confirms that the first discussions between the club and Maza's representatives have taken place.

Importantly, the player's response has been positive.

Maza reportedly feels comfortable in Leverkusen and is fundamentally open to committing his future to the club.

No agreement has been reached, but the two sides appear to share an interest in continuing their relationship.

Arsenal And Tottenham Are Watching

Leverkusen have good reason to act early.

Last month, Arsenal and Tottenham had stepped up their interest in Maza, with Chelsea, Manchester City and Aston Villa also monitoring his development.

Manchester City have reportedly made contact with the player's entourage to remain informed about his situation.

Sky now confirms that several Premier League clubs continue to follow the midfielder closely, with the possibility of interest increasing in future transfer windows.

For now, there is no indication that Maza is actively pushing for a departure. According to our sources, Maza is focused on developing step by step rather than rushing into a major transfer at the age of 20.

His willingness to discuss an extension supports that assessment.

Maza Has Become Central To Leverkusen's Plans

Die Werkself signed Maza from Hertha Berlin for approximately €12 million in the summer of 2025.

What initially looked like an investment in one of Germany's most promising attacking midfielders has quickly become an important part of the club's sporting project.

Maza made 44 appearances in his debut season, contributing five goals and seven assists across competitions.

His performances also earned him a nomination for the 2026 Kopa Trophy, placing him among the most highly regarded young players in European football.

Under Carles Martínez, his importance has continued to grow.

Although primarily viewed as an attacking midfielder, Maza has also operated on both wings, giving the coach flexibility during a period of significant changes to Leverkusen's squad.

Bayer increasingly see him as one of the players capable of shaping their attack for years to come.

A Different Situation From Kofane

The contrast with Christian Kofane is particularly striking.

Leverkusen are also trying to extend the striker's contract, but those negotiations have stalled.

On Thursday, Sky reported that Kofane is pushing for a Premier League move despite Bayer offering improved terms until 2031.

Maza's situation currently appears more encouraging.

Both players are attracting attention from the Premier League, and both have contracts that give the German side considerable security.

But while Kofane's future has become increasingly uncertain, Maza is reportedly receptive to the club's plans.

That does not guarantee an agreement.

Premier League interest could still complicate negotiations, particularly if clubs begin making concrete approaches.

For now, however, Die Werkself have something important working in their favour.

Maza wants to continue developing, and Bayer believe they can offer him the environment to do so.

The next step is turning that shared understanding into a new contract.

From here the stage only gets bigger.