Leicester City have pulled off a major summer coup, reaching an agreement with Hertha BSC to sign highly-rated attacking midfielder Ibrahim Maza for €12 million. The 19-year-old, who has been one of the standout young talents in German football this season, is set to bolster Leicester’s attacking options as they prepare for a return to the Premier League.
Maza’s Rise to Prominence
Ibrahim Maza has been a revelation in the 2. Bundesliga this season, playing a key role in Hertha BSC’s push for promotion. With seven goals and four assists in 24 league appearances, the Algerian-German playmaker has attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Atlético Madrid and Newcastle United.
His technical ability, vision, and knack for unlocking defenses have made him one of the most exciting young talents in German football. Maza’s performances in both league and cup competitions have seen his market value soar, with his price tag increasing from €8 million in late 2024 to the reported €12 million fee Leicester City have agreed to pay.
Leicester City’s Ambitious Summer Plans
Leicester, under manager Enzo Maresca, have been proactive in the transfer market as they look to solidify their squad for top-flight football next season. After securing promotion back to the Premier League, the Foxes have made it clear that they intend to compete, rather than merely survive.
The addition of Maza represents a significant statement of intent. Known for his creativity and composure on the ball, he is expected to provide Leicester with an additional spark in the final third. With James Maddison having left the club last summer, Leicester have been searching for a young, dynamic playmaker to fill the void.
Maza’s ability to play across the attacking midfield positions makes him a valuable asset for Maresca, who has emphasized fluid attacking play and technical proficiency in his tactical setup.
Why Maza Chose Leicester Over Other Suitors
Maza’s impressive form had drawn interest from top European clubs, with Atlético Madrid, Stuttgart, and Newcastle United all reportedly monitoring his situation. However, sources close to the player suggest that he was swayed by Leicester’s clear project and the opportunity for regular first-team football in the Premier League.
At Atlético Madrid, he would have faced stiff competition for a starting spot, while Stuttgart, despite their growing reputation, lacked the financial pull to match Leicester’s bid. Newcastle United’s interest, on the other hand, did not materialize into a formal offer, allowing Leicester to move quickly to seal the deal.
Maza is expected to sign a five-year contract with the Foxes, with personal terms reportedly agreed upon earlier this week.
Hertha BSC’s Perspective on the Deal
For Hertha BSC, Maza’s departure is a bittersweet moment. The club had hoped to retain their young star, especially with promotion hopes still alive. However, the financial boost from the €12 million sale will allow them to reinvest in the squad and potentially strengthen their push to return to the Bundesliga.
Speaking about the deal, Hertha’s sporting director commented:
“Ibrahim is a fantastic talent, and while we would have loved to keep him, we understand that playing in the Premier League is a huge opportunity for him. The transfer fee we have secured will help us build a stronger team for the future.”
What Maza Brings to Leicester City
Leicester fans will be eager to see their new signing in action, and Maza’s attributes make him a perfect fit for the Foxes’ attacking philosophy. His strengths include:
Dribbling and Ball Control – Maza possesses exceptional dribbling skills, allowing him to glide past defenders with ease.
Creativity and Vision – His ability to pick out key passes and unlock defenses will add a new dimension to Leicester’s attacking play.
Versatility – Capable of playing as an attacking midfielder, winger, or even a deep-lying playmaker, Maza gives Maresca tactical flexibility.
Composure in Front of Goal – With seven goals this season, he has demonstrated a cool head in high-pressure situations.
Former Leicester legend and current club ambassador, Emile Heskey, weighed in on the transfer:
“Ibrahim Maza is a very exciting signing for Leicester City. He’s young, but his maturity on the ball is well beyond his years. The Premier League will be a big step up, but I believe he has the quality to thrive in England.”
What’s Next for Leicester?
With Maza’s deal wrapped up, Leicester are not expected to stop their summer business there. Reports indicate that the club is still in the market for a striker, with FC Midtjylland’s Franculino Djú among their top targets. The Foxes are also exploring defensive reinforcements to ensure they remain competitive in the Premier League.
Maza is expected to undergo his medical in the coming days before being officially unveiled as a Leicester City player. He will join the squad for their pre-season tour and could make his debut in a friendly against a top European side later in the summer.
Final Thoughts
Leicester City’s acquisition of Ibrahim Maza marks an exciting moment for the club and its supporters. With his talent, Leicester have secured one of Europe’s brightest young prospects, and if he adapts well to English football, the €12 million price tag could prove to be a bargain in the long run.
For Hertha BSC, while losing a young star is never easy, the financial gain will help them in their long-term ambitions.
With the transfer now agreed, all eyes will be on Maza as he embarks on this new chapter in his career, with the Premier League awaiting his magic on the ball.
