Arsenal have emerged as the favourites to sign one of the most exciting young talents from Bayer Leverkusen. Now the player’s agent has given an update on the interest from the North London club. Mikel Arteta is keen on improving his attacking play ahead of the summer transfer window.
Mikel Arteta Endorses Move for Bayer Leverkusen Rising Star
Bayer Leverkusen striker Christian Kofane, a highly rated 19-year-old Cameroonian forward, has become a key Arsenal transfer target. The club tracked the striker during his breakout season in German football. The latest reports reveal that formal talks have now taken place among the player’s agent, Eric Depolo, and the club.
The agent of the player confirmed a legit interest from the English side during a recent interview. He stated that the contact is real, and Mikel Arteta has given his approval for the move. Depolo noted that “Yes, Arsenal’s interest is genuine. The manager likes him very much.” The boss likes the player and is eager about his long-term prospects.
However, the club may not be able to complete the transfer deal right away. The agent noted that everything will start moving once the current Premier League campaign reaches its climax. The club remain focused on their league targets before giving their full attention to the summer window.
READ MORE: Rio Ferdinand makes claim about Mikel Arteta strategy
Inside the Rise of the Bayer Leverkusen Forward Taking Europe by Storm
Arsenal want to secure the Bayer Leverkusen star to improve their frontline options. Kofane is an imposing striker who stands at 1.89 metres tall and shows great strength. He has had an excellent debut season. Stats from Transfer market show he has scored seven goals and eight assists in 39 matches across all competitions.
In addition, the player stood out during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. He scored two goals in four matches for Cameroon. He became the youngest goalscorer for his nation in the tournament since Samuel Eto’o. This further cemented him as a top-tier prospect.
Depolo has claimed Kofane is the “Best Under-21 striker in Europe”. His playing style combines great pace with technical prowess and a strong work rate. The teenager has shown he is a complete striker, effective both in the air and on the ground. He especially impressed when he featured against Arsenal in the Champions League earlier this year. Although his team lost, the forward caused plenty of problems for Saliba and Gabriel and nearly scored a goal.
Further, the pursuit comes amid rumours about a planned squad reshuffle. Players like Gabriel Jesus’s and Martinelli’s futures in the club are in doubt. There is also doubt regarding Kai Havertz, though he has brushed off exit rumours.
READ NEXT: Arsenal blow: Mikel Merino a world cup doubt
Market Dynamics and Transfer Competition Increase
Arsenal are not alone in this race. Many other clubs are keeping a close watch on the striker. Chelsea are said to have joined the pursuit, while Newcastle, Everton, and Brentford are also tracking his status. Besides that, giants such as Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich have shown an interest in the talent.
But the Gunners appear to have a distinct edge in transfer talks. Kofane speaks Spanish from his time in Albacete, which can help him to communicate with Arteta. Plus, he shares Cameroonian roots with star defender Saliba. The Gunners signed Hincapie from Leverkusen recently, which can also help in discussions.
Kofane is at present under contract with his club until the summer of 2029. He arrived on a €5 million fee from Albacete last season. Now, after just one season, his market value has risen sharply to €40 million. As per reportsLeverkusen are asking for a fee ranging from €60 million to €70 million. However, his agent has boldly valued the player at €100 million. Depolo claimed that “He is a €100 million player. With Kofane, Arsenal will have a top striker for the next ten years.”
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add Football Express as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
