Bayer Leverkusen win race for Hertha Berlin teenager Kennet Eichhorn
Short overview
Bayer Leverkusen have secured the signing of 16-year-old Hertha Berlin midfielder Kennet Eichhorn, beating interest from clubs in Germany and England. The deal, led by Simon Rolfes and Kim Falkenberg, includes a release clause.
Bayer Leverkusen have won the race to sign highly rated 16-year-old midfielder Kennet Eichhorn from Hertha Berlin, according to reports. The teenager attracted significant interest from clubs in both Germany and England, but has opted to join Bayer 04 after a pursuit led by sporting director Simon Rolfes and youth coordinator Kim Falkenberg.
Transfer details
The Athletic reports that a release clause in Eichhorn's contract will be activated to complete the transfer. The exact fee has not been disclosed, but the clause is understood to be substantial for a player of his age. Eichhorn is considered one of the most promising talents in German youth football, having progressed through Hertha's academy.
Interest from multiple clubs
Eichhorn's performances for Hertha's youth teams had drawn attention from several top-flight clubs in Germany, as well as Premier League sides in England. However, Leverkusen's long-term development plan and the personal involvement of Rolfes and Falkenberg were key factors in his decision.
The move continues Leverkusen's strategy of investing in young talent, with the club having previously signed players like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong at a young age. Eichhorn is expected to join Leverkusen's U19 squad initially, with a pathway to the first team.
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