Bayer Leverkusen Sign 16-Year-Old Kennet Eichhorn from Hertha

Bayer Leverkusen have activated Kennet Eichhorn's release clause and signed the 16‑year‑old Hertha Berlin midfielder on a contract running to 2031. The German club completed the medical and secured the deal.

Barcelona, Liverpool, Manchester City, Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig were among the clubs monitoring Eichhorn after his emergence as a top German prospect. Barcelona's interest never progressed to a formal offer.

Leverkusen triggered a release clause worth around €9 million to obtain Eichhorn. The midfielder has drawn comparisons to Toni Kroos for his calmness, passing range, vision and maturity on the ball.

Deco and the sporting department had followed Eichhorn for months, presenting him as a low‑cost, high‑upside option rather than an immediate first‑team starter. Eichhorn chose Leverkusen for a clear pathway to senior football, leaving Barcelona to watch his development from afar.