Eighteen-year-old Bosnian striker Kerim Alajbegovic never made a single competitive appearance for Bayer Leverkusen, yet the Bundesliga club has just completed a deal that shattered records and filled its coffers.

The teenager, who impressed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with four goals and one assist in four matches, is now set to join Juventus in a move that could net Leverkusen up to €37 million—including bonuses—after an initial fee of €30 million was agreed. This makes Alajbegovic the most expensive teenager ever sold by a Bundesliga club, surpassing Renato Sanches, who joined Bayern München from Benfica for €35 million in 2016 at the same age.

From Leverkusen’s bench to Juventus’ starting lineup

Alajbegovic’s journey to Turin began in Germany’s youth academies, first at 1. FC Köln and later at Bayer Leverkusen. Despite never stepping onto the pitch in an official match for Leverkusen, his potential caught the eye of scouts across Europe. Last summer, Leverkusen loaned him to Red Bull Salzburg, where he quickly silenced critics who doubted his adaptation to senior football. In 44 appearances across all competitions, he scored 13 goals and provided four assists, proving his readiness for top-level competition.

The club activated its €8 million buy-back clause after his standout season, but instead of bringing him back, Leverkusen opted to cash in. The move reflects the club’s strategic approach to youth development—producing talent only to monetize it when the time is right.

Juventus beats Chelsea in high-stakes transfer battle

Reports suggest Chelsea tabled the highest bid at €40 million, but Alajbegovic chose Juventus, lured by the promise of an immediate starting role under former Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso. The Italian giants outmaneuvered their Premier League rivals by offering not just financial incentives but a clear pathway to first-team football—an enticing prospect for a young player eager to prove himself at the highest level.

Alajbegovic’s versatility—he can operate on both wings and in an attacking midfield role—only added to his appeal. His ability to play across multiple offensive positions gives Juventus tactical flexibility, making him a valuable asset as they rebuild under Alonso’s leadership.

Why Leverkusen prioritized profit over retention

Speaking on the decision, Bayer Leverkusen’s sporting director Simon Rolfes explained the rationale behind the sale: « After his development in our academy and his breakthrough season in Austria, we had to assess the competition within our squad. Positions like his are highly contested, especially with recent signings like Afonso Bastardo Moreira and Eliesse Ben-Seghir, as well as established talents Malik Tillman and Ibrahim Maza. Given the global transfer package, we determined that this was the optimal moment to maximize his value. »

The club’s willingness to let go of such a promising asset underscores Leverkusen’s business model: develop young talent, elevate their market value through loans, and sell at the peak. This approach has allowed the club to remain financially competitive while continuing to nurture future stars.