Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are stepping up their interest in Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Ibrahim Maza, with the young Algeria international increasingly attracting attention from Premier League clubs.
The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has made an encouraging start to the 2026/27 season and is reportedly being closely monitored by both north London clubs.
However, there is an important distinction at this stage: neither Arsenal nor Tottenham is reported to have made a formal offer for Maza.
Instead, both clubs are understood to be assessing his development and potential availability as his reputation continues to grow in Germany.
Who Is Ibrahim Maza?
Ibrahim Maza was born in Berlin and came through the youth system at Hertha Berlin before making his senior breakthrough with the German club.
He joined Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2025, becoming the club’s first new signing ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Leverkusen handed Maza a contract running until June 30, 2030, demonstrating the club’s long-term plans for the young midfielder.
The club’s sporting management described him at the time as one of the most interesting young attacking players available, highlighting his technical ability, dribbling and vision.
Those qualities have become increasingly visible as Maza has gained experience at the Bundesliga level.
Why Are Arsenal and Tottenham Interested?
Maza’s versatility appears to be one of the reasons behind the growing interest.
The 20-year-old is primarily an attacking midfielder, but his ability to operate between the lines and carry the ball into dangerous areas gives him several possible roles within an attacking system.
Reports from TEAMtalk, as relayed by several outlets, indicate that Arsenal and Tottenham have watched Maza this season while evaluating his development and potential availability.
That does not necessarily mean either club is preparing an immediate transfer bid.
For now, the situation is better described as active scouting and monitoring.
Arsenal’s Interest in Maza
Arsenal have been linked with Maza as they continue to monitor young attacking talent in Europe.
The midfielder’s technical profile could make him an interesting option for a team that values players capable of operating between midfield and attack.
According to recent reports, Arsenal have accelerated their checks on the player and are keeping a close eye on his progress at Leverkusen.
However, there is currently no confirmed information that Arsenal have submitted an official bid.
That distinction is important, particularly this early in the transfer process.
Tottenham Are Also Watching Closely
Tottenham have now joined Arsenal in showing significant interest in the midfielder.
The two clubs are familiar rivals in the Premier League, and reports suggest both are assessing whether Maza could eventually become a realistic transfer target.
Tottenham’s interest adds another layer to the story because Maza’s growing reputation means the number of Premier League clubs monitoring him could increase if his performances continue to improve.
Chelsea, Manchester City and Aston Villa have also been mentioned in reports as clubs following his progress.
Maza’s Rise at Bayer Leverkusen
Maza’s move to Leverkusen represented an important step in his development.
Before leaving Hertha Berlin, he had already established himself as one of the club’s promising young players.
Leverkusen signed him with the expectation that he could develop into an important attacking player, and the club’s long-term contract reflects that confidence.
The official Bayer Leverkusen profile currently lists Maza with 49 appearances, six goals and eight assists for the club.
He was also voted Bayer Leverkusen’s Player of the Season for 2025/26 by supporters, receiving more than one-third of the votes.
That recognition has helped increase his profile heading into the new campaign.
International Football Has Added to His Profile
Maza also represents Algeria at international level.
Although born in Germany, he chose to play for Algeria after representing Germany at youth level.
His international performances have added another dimension to his growing reputation.
Recent reports noted that Maza scored and provided an assist in Algeria’s 3-1 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying victory over Zambia, further highlighting his current form.
Performances for both club and country are likely to make it increasingly difficult for Premier League scouts to overlook him.
Bayer Leverkusen Are In a Strong Position
One major factor could make a potential transfer difficult: Maza’s contract.
Leverkusen have him tied down until June 2030, meaning the German club is under no immediate pressure to sell.
That gives Leverkusen considerable leverage if Arsenal, Tottenham or another interested club eventually decides to make a formal approach.
At the moment, there is no confirmed asking price from Bayer Leverkusen.
Reports mentioning possible valuations should therefore be treated as speculation rather than an established transfer fee.
Could Maza Move to the Premier League?
A Premier League move is certainly possible in the future, but there is no confirmed agreement at this stage.
Arsenal and Tottenham appear to be monitoring the midfielder rather than negotiating a completed transfer.
Much could depend on how Maza performs throughout the 2026/27 season.
If he continues to develop and becomes an increasingly important player for Leverkusen, interest from Premier League clubs could intensify.
On the other hand, Leverkusen have already demonstrated that they see him as a long-term asset by giving him a contract lasting until 2030.
What Happens Next?
The immediate focus will remain on Maza’s performances for Bayer Leverkusen and Algeria.
Arsenal and Tottenham are expected to continue monitoring his development, while other Premier League clubs could also become involved.
A formal bid would represent a significant change in the situation, but there is currently no confirmed offer from either north London club.
For Leverkusen, the priority will be keeping one of their most promising young players focused on his development.
For Maza, the challenge is to maintain his form and establish himself as a consistent Bundesliga performer.
The Bottom Line
Ibrahim Maza is becoming one of the young attacking midfielders attracting increasing attention from the Premier League.
Arsenal and Tottenham have reportedly stepped up their interest and are monitoring the Bayer Leverkusen star as they assess his development and potential availability.
Other clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester City and Aston Villa, have also been linked with the player.
But for now, there is no confirmed transfer offer or agreement.
Maza remains under contract with Bayer Leverkusen until 2030, and the German club is in a strong position to decide his future.
If the 20-year-old continues his current development, however, his name could become increasingly prominent when the next transfer window arrives.
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