Barcelona accelerates interest in €25m-rated Bayer Leverkusen sensation amid urgent squad reinforcement plans.
FC Barcelona’s scouting network has turned heads in the Bundesliga, identifying a promising attacking talent as a long-term investment amid their restrained January plans under Deco and Hansi Flick.
The La Liga champions prioritize youth development over big-money splurges, with eyes on prospects who blend flair, versatility, and immediate resale value to navigate financial fair play.
This 20-year-old gem, thriving in Germany’s top flight after a €12 million summer switch, embodies the profile: a skilled dribbler capable of playing as No. 10, second striker, or winger.
Barcelona scouts will intensify monitoring during the Africa Cup of Nations, specifically Algeria’s clash against Equatorial Guinea, positioning the club for a potential summer swoop at his modest €25 million valuation.
That starlet is Ibrahim Maza, the Berlin-born Algerian international who exploded from Hertha BSC to Bayer Leverkusen last summer, signing until 2030.
In his debut campaign with Die Werkself, the November 2005-born prodigy has notched four goals and three assists across 21 appearances, showcasing silky dribbling and creative spark that echoes La Masia ideals.
Algerian reports, echoed by Mundo Deportivo, confirm Barcelona’s admiration, with AFCON providing the perfect showcase as Maza represents the Desert Foxes alongside other monitored talents like Levante’s Etta Eyong.
Though not an urgent need—Flick’s midfield revolves around Pedri and Gavi—Maza represents strategic foresight.
His youth aligns with Barca’s post-Lewandowski rebuild, offering depth behind Dani Olmo and potential rotation amid Champions League demands.
Leverkusen’s long-term deal demands negotiation savvy, but Maza’s €25 million tag remains accessible compared to elite targets.
Barcelona’s African scouting push reflects global ambition, mirroring recent Egyptian signing Hamza Abdelkarim.
Maza’s AFCON performances could accelerate talks, with Deco eyeing a low-risk, high-reward profile to bolster squad versatility.
As Bayer Leverkusen chase titles, Barcelona lurks patiently, ready to pounce on emerging excellence without derailing fiscal discipline.
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