Bundesliga has always been a fertile breeding ground for talented youngsters and it is unsurprising to see another one being scouted by top clubs.
The value for midfielders has skyrocketed in modern football. With most of the top European sides opting to play a possession-based game, a lot of emphasis is on the midfield to keep the team ticking. Clubs are willing to pay to bring in talent and the Bundesliga has always offered it in abundance. So, it is unsurprising that Leverkusen’s Kai Havertz is attracting a lot of suitors.
The next step
According to Sport Bild, via Sport Witness, the Bayer Leverkusen star is being closely watched by many of Europe’s top clubs. The 19-year-old has impressed at the BayArena and is expected to take a leap into the highest levels of the game. Most of the top European clubs have the player on their radar, with Manchester City in the forefront. The report has claimed that the English Champions have been in constant touch with the player’s representatives.
Bayer Leverkusen, however, do not have an obligation to sell as the midfielder is contracted til 2022. The extension was signed this July. The German side might budge only if the interest is backed up with €80m. But Leverkusen fears not playing in Europe next season could be a major issue in terms of keeping Havertz. Heiko Herrlich’s side currently 11th in the Bundesliga, only 5 points behind the European spots. Ultimately, the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona and PSG showing interest will only hasten his departure.
Kai Havertz – Scout report
Havertz is a lanky midfielder who can don a number of roles despite being a No.10 by trade. He has been impressive both in the league and in Europe, scoring 7 and assisting another 5. He has been touted as the ‘Next Michael Ballack’ but his style is quite similar to Arsenal’s creator-in-chief, Mesut Ozil.
The youngster is surprisingly comfortable with the ball at his feet and has a good injection of speed, given his physique. He has earned praise for his vision and creative passing in the final third. Bayer Leverkusen sporting director, Rudi Voller praised Havertz. “He has huge potential, which will come to the fore even more in the coming years.”Leverkusen captain, Lars Bender, also had some kind words for the youngster.“I’ve never seen such a complete player at that age.”
Author’s take
Kai Havertz certainly looks an exciting prospect. However, Havertz just needs to ensure he continues to evolve all areas of his game and keep up his consistent attacking output. If he can keep up the consistency, there is no reason why he should be playing for one of the European superclubs in two years time.
