PSG eye Bayer Leverkusen star Ibrahim Maza ahead of January transfer window

Ibrahim Maza's impressive development at Bayer Leverkusen has attracted the attention of Paris Saint-Germain, with the French champions reportedly making contact with the player's representatives. Leverkusen want to reward the attacking midfielder with a new contract, but an agreement is not expected to be reached quickly.

Maza joined Leverkusen from Hertha BSC for €12 million in 2025 and has established himself as a key player very quickly. After ten appearances this season, the 20-year-old has recorded three goals and three assists, already matching half of his total goal contributions from the previous campaign.

His performances have also significantly increased his market value, which recently rose to €50 million, according to Transfermarkt.

According to Sky Germany, Leverkusen are working on an early extension of Maza's contract, which currently runs until 2030. However, negotiations are expected to take time, while interest from several European clubs continues to grow.

PSG are the newest among the clubs monitoring the Algerian international and have reportedly already contacted his representatives to express their interest. The French champions are considering a move as early as the January transfer window, with injuries to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and recurring fitness problems for Ousmane Dembélé reportedly contributing to their desire to strengthen their attacking options.

Manchester City were also said to have shown strong interest in Maza last summer, while Arsenal and Aston Villa have recently been linked with the attacking midfielder as well.

Leverkusen see similarities with Florian Wirtz

Maza's dribbling ability, vision and attacking output have drawn comparisons with former Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, who joined Liverpool for €125 million last year.

After Maza contributed a goal and an assist in Leverkusen's 2-1 victory over Freiburg, sporting director Simon Rolfes praised the youngster's qualities.

"He's also a little dribbler; we've had that combination here before," Rolfes said, referring to the similarities with Wirtz.

Head coach Carles Martínez also highlighted Maza's importance to the team, praising both his talent and his willingness to improve.

"He's a very, very talented player; he gives us a lot. He's always ready and wants to improve," Martínez said. “With players like him, who are involved both offensively and defensively, we can keep getting better. The whole team played well, but the connection between Maza and Schick will be important.”

Despite the growing attention and his rising market value, Maza has remained focused on his performances rather than individual recognition.

"I always try to keep pushing, to keep training hard. And I hope that as a team, we can achieve our goals this year," he said. “The team's goals come first. If I can help with goals and assists, then I'm happy too. But of course, you also have your own ambitions.”