PSG Transfer Prediction: Could Ibrahim Maza Leave Bayer Leverkusen This Winter?
Ibrahim Maza has quickly become one of Bayer Leverkusen’s most important young players, and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly monitoring his situation closely. The 20-year-old attacker has emerged as a leading transfer target for the French champions, with reports suggesting PSG could consider a move as early as the winter window.
For Leverkusen, the question is not simply how much Maza might be worth. It is whether the club would be willing to part with a player who is increasingly central to its plans. His long contract, recent performances and potential role in the team all make a midseason departure difficult to imagine—though PSG’s interest could test Bayer’s resolve.
Why PSG Are Interested in Ibrahim Maza
Algerian journalist Brahim Hanifi has reported that PSG want to sign Maza “at any cost.” Sky has also reported that the club could explore a winter transfer, with the young attacker viewed as a possible option to help cover for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
The Georgian forward has reportedly suffered a serious knee injury after tearing his cruciate ligament in a Champions League match against FC Barcelona. If he is unavailable for the remainder of the season, PSG may need to find ways to replace his creativity, attacking movement and ability to influence games in the final third.
Maza is not a like-for-like copy of Kvaratskhelia, but his versatility and technical quality could appeal to PSG. He can operate in advanced attacking positions and has shown an ability to contribute both as a scorer and creator. In ten competitive appearances for Leverkusen this season, he has recorded three goals and three assists—a promising return for a player still establishing himself at the highest level.
Leverkusen’s Successor to Florian Wirtz
Maza joined Bayer Leverkusen from Hertha BSC in the summer of 2025 for a reported €12 million. The move was widely viewed as a significant investment in his potential, with the club seeing him as one of the players capable of helping fill the creative gap left by Florian Wirtz.
That comparison brings expectations, but Maza is developing on his own path. His progress has gathered pace after the turn of the year, as stronger performances have helped him become a more influential presence in Leverkusen’s attack. For a club competing in a demanding domestic and European schedule, a young player who can provide goals, assists and flexibility is particularly valuable.
Maza has also attracted attention on the international stage. He has earned 24 caps for Algeria and impressed during the previous Africa Cup of Nations. Although he did not register a goal contribution in four World Cup appearances, his international experience has added to his profile and given him exposure to high-pressure football.
Kopa Trophy Recognition and Dembele’s Prediction
Maza’s rise was recognised with a nomination for the Kopa Trophy, which honours the best young player of the year. He finished ninth in the voting, but the nomination itself marked an important milestone in his career.
Speaking about the ceremony at London’s Palladium Theatre, Maza said he was proud to attend and grateful to be nominated, describing the experience as a dream for young players. The recognition reflects how quickly his reputation has grown beyond Leverkusen and Algeria.
One social media reaction drew particular attention. After Maza shared a post from the event on Instagram, PSG star Ousmane Dembele commented: “The next Ballon d’Or, God willing.” It was a bold prediction, but it underlined the excitement surrounding Maza’s potential. Such praise does not guarantee future honours, of course, but it shows that established stars are taking notice of his progress.
Will Bayer Leverkusen Accept a Winter Transfer?
Maza’s contract with Leverkusen runs until 2030, giving the German club a strong negotiating position. Reports indicate that sporting director Simon Rolfes and chief executive Fernando Carro are working on an early contract extension that could also include a salary increase.
That approach would serve two purposes: rewarding Maza for his development and reinforcing Leverkusen’s intention to keep him. A long-term deal means Bayer are under no immediate pressure to sell, especially during the winter window, when replacing a key attacker can be more difficult than in the summer.
PSG are said to have communicated their interest to Maza and his representatives, but Leverkusen are reportedly not ready to change their stance. A transfer prediction should therefore be treated cautiously. PSG’s financial resources make them a serious suitor, yet the timing, the player’s role at Bayer and the club’s contract plans all point to substantial obstacles.
PSG’s Other Options in the Transfer Market
Maza is reportedly not the only young attacker on PSG’s shortlist. Paris Brunner and Said El Mala have also been linked with the club as potential options, while reports suggest PSG could have a winter transfer budget of around €80 million.
Coach Luis Enrique has also indicated that PSG may be able to manage Kvaratskhelia’s absence using players already in the squad. Maghnes Akliouche and Mika Godts have been mentioned as possible internal alternatives. Godts, in particular, made an immediate impact after coming off the bench against Olympique Lyon, providing an assist and scoring the decisive goal.
That performance could reduce the pressure on PSG to make a major signing immediately. The club may still pursue Maza, but it has alternatives—both from within the squad and in the transfer market. Any decision will depend on the severity and expected duration of Kvaratskhelia’s absence, as well as whether PSG believe a winter deal offers better value than waiting until the summer.
Transfer Outlook: Maza’s Future Remains in Leverkusen’s Hands
For now, Maza appears to be firmly embedded in Leverkusen’s plans. His contract, growing influence and potential contract extension make a winter exit challenging, even if PSG are prepared to test the market. The most realistic prediction is that Bayer will resist an approach unless the player pushes for a move or PSG presents an offer difficult to refuse.
Interest from a club of PSG’s stature is a sign of Maza’s rapid rise, but it does not necessarily mean a transfer is imminent. Leverkusen have invested in him as a long-term attacking asset, while Maza has an opportunity to continue developing in a familiar environment. The coming weeks should clarify whether PSG’s reported pursuit becomes a formal bid—or remains one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the winter window.
