Bayer Leverkusen unlikely to activate buy option of Emiliano Buendia – will opt to pursue Ibrahim Maza instead | OneFootball

kicker reports that Bayer Leverkusen are unlikely to activate the buy option for on loan attacking midfielder Emiliano Buendia and will instead look elsewhere.

After a strong debut, Buendia has struggled for Leverkusen and has not been able to solidify a place in the team. With the injury to Florian Wirtz, the Argentine will have to step up his performances tenfold to help Leverkusen end the season successfully.

However, this is unlikely to have an impact on his future and he is set to return to Aston Villa in the summer as Leverkusen will not activate the €20m buy option.

Instead they will opt to pursue Hertha Berlin’s Ibrahim Maza, only if Jonas Hofmann leaves the club. The 32 year old has struggled for injuries and form after a very good first few months at the BayArena and a move away in the summer may help him rediscover himself.

If Hofmann does leave, Maza will be the main target and Leverkusen will step up their interest. The 19-year-old would be available for around €10m. However, VfB Stuttgart are also said to be interested in Maza as they look for a replacement for Enzo Millot.

GGFN | Jack Meenan