Bayer Leverkusen secures Kennet Eichhorn from Hertha Berlin

By Evelyn Mensah — 10 June 2026 — 3 min read

Bayer Leverkusen has successfully signed Kennet Eichhorn, a 16-year-old talent from Hertha Berlin. The defensive midfielder was reportedly a target for several top clubs in both Germany and England, making Leverkusen’s acquisition a significant move.

The pursuit of Eichhorn by Leverkusen was spearheaded by managing director Simon Rolfes and director of football Kim Falkenberg. Despite facing strong competition, Leverkusen managed to secure the young player, who has been compared to a young Toni Kroos.

Eichhorn’s Journey to Leverkusen

Eichhorn’s move to Bayer Leverkusen involves activating a release clause in his previous contract. This will allow the Germany youth international to finalise his transfer as all necessary paperwork is completed.

During the 2025-26 campaign, Eichhorn made 17 appearances for Hertha Berlin in the 2.Bundesliga, which is the second tier of German football. He has also represented Germany at the under-17 level.

One report indicates that Liverpool had been monitoring Eichhorn and engaged in discussions with his representatives. However, the German youngster ultimately opted to join Bayer Leverkusen.

According to transfer reports, Eichhorn has completed his medical with Bayer Leverkusen. The deal is said to include a release clause that was activated, and a contract has been agreed upon until June 2031.

Future Prospects and Release Clauses

Despite Eichhorn’s move to Bayer Leverkusen, there are reports of a future release clause in his contract that could potentially allow Liverpool to acquire him at a later stage. This clause is said to become active once Eichhorn reaches the age of nineteen.

The relationship between Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen is described as strong, which reportedly played a role in the agreement for Eichhorn. This arrangement is viewed positively by Liverpool, as it provides a pathway to potentially sign the player in the future, despite initial complexities.

As part of the broader understanding between the two clubs, Liverpool has reportedly given assurances regarding Jarell Quansah. This includes an agreement that Liverpool does not intend to activate a buy-back clause in Quansah’s contract, allowing him to continue with the German club.

This outcome is seen as reflecting the trust built between Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen over recent years, with all parties reportedly satisfied. Eichhorn is said to retain the opportunity to fulfill his long-term ambition of playing at Anfield.

The move for Eichhorn is considered a significant achievement for Bayer Leverkusen, especially given that they were reportedly the only club competing for his signature that could not immediately offer Champions League football.

Eichhorn’s decision to stay in Germany and join Bayer Leverkusen, despite interest from numerous clubs, highlights the appeal of Leverkusen’s project, which is reportedly in a rebuilding phase.

The young midfielder’s talent is widely recognised, with many clubs reportedly willing to pay a substantial fee to secure his services.

The agreement ensures that Eichhorn will join Bayer Leverkusen permanently, rather than through an initially discussed loan structure, while preserving Liverpool’s long-term objective.

The release clause mechanism is specifically designed to protect Liverpool’s long-term position, providing a clear and realistic pathway for a future transfer.

Eichhorn’s medical with Bayer Leverkusen was completed on June 10.

Source: nytimes.com