Juventus Win Race for Kerim Alajbegović as Chelsea Miss Out on Leverkusen Star

Story Confidence: 🟡 Advanced Negotiations

Juventus have taken a significant step towards signing highly rated Bayer Leverkusen youngster Kerim Alajbegović, overtaking Chelsea in one of the summer's most closely watched transfer races.

The Serie A giants have reached an agreement with Bayer Leverkusen on a deal reportedly worth around €40 million, including add-ons, leaving Juventus in pole position to complete the transfer.

However, while the clubs are understood to have found common ground, the move is not yet fully completed, as the player must still give his final approval before the deal can be finalised.

Juventus Make Their Move

Chelsea had been strongly linked with the Bosnia and Herzegovina international for several weeks, with reports suggesting Xabi Alonso was eager to reunite with the talented attacker following their previous connection at Bayer Leverkusen.

Despite the Blues' interest, Juventus intensified negotiations in recent days by improving their financial package and presenting a clear sporting project centred around first-team football. That proposal appears to have convinced Leverkusen to move forward with the Italian club instead.

Why Alajbegović Is So Highly Rated

Alajbegović has rapidly emerged as one of Europe's brightest young attacking talents.

The teenager enhanced his growing reputation with impressive performances during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has continued attracting attention thanks to his technical quality, direct running and eye for goal.

Several leading European clubs monitored his development throughout the summer, but Juventus have acted decisively to place themselves at the front of the queue before competition intensified further.

Chelsea Turn Their Attention Elsewhere

Chelsea invested considerable time in pursuing Alajbegović and were widely viewed as favourites only a few days ago.

However, Juventus' improved offer and advanced negotiations have dramatically shifted the balance of the transfer race.

While Chelsea remain active in the market, attention is now expected to turn towards alternative attacking targets should Alajbegović complete his move to Turin.

Final Approval Still Required

Although Juventus have reached an agreement with Bayer Leverkusen, the transfer has not yet been officially completed.

Reports indicate the final decision now rests with Alajbegović, who must formally approve the move before contracts can be signed.

Until that happens, the deal remains in the advanced negotiation stage rather than fully completed, even though Juventus are increasingly confident of securing the player's signature.

What Happens Next?

Juventus are expected to continue discussions with Alajbegović's representatives in the coming days to finalise the remaining details of the transfer.

Should the player give the green light, medical examinations and official paperwork are expected to follow before Juventus formally announce one of their biggest signings of the summer.

Focus now shifts to whether Kerim Alajbegović gives his final approval, with Juventus hoping to complete the deal before Chelsea can revive their interest.

Key Takeaways

📌 Juventus have moved ahead of Chelsea in the race to sign Kerim Alajbegović.

📌 Bayer Leverkusen and Juventus have reportedly agreed a deal worth around €40 million including add-ons.

📌 Chelsea had been strongly interested but now appear set to miss out on the highly rated youngster.

📌 The transfer is not yet official, with Alajbegović still required to give his final approval.

📌 Juventus remain confident the deal will be completed in the coming days.

Fan Debate

●⚽ Goal: Have Juventus pulled off one of the smartest young signings of the summer?

●🔥 Fire: Will Alajbegović become Juventus' next superstar?

●😲 Shock: Are you surprised Chelsea have fallen behind in the race?

●👍 Like: Did Juventus offer the better sporting project for the youngster?

●💬 Comment: Where do you think Kerim Alajbegović will be playing his football five years from now?