PSG Eye Ibrahim Maza as Possible Replacement for Injured Kvaratskhelia
Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly considering Bayer Leverkusen forward Ibrahim Maza as a potential replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, according to Sky Sports. The French champions are assessing their options after the Georgian winger suffered a serious knee injury that is expected to keep him out for the rest of the season.
Maza, a 20-year-old Algeria international, could offer PSG versatility across the attacking line. Although he is most comfortable as an attacking midfielder, the club are also understood to view him as a possible option in a more advanced role. His arrival would add competition for places, including for Mika Godts, who joined PSG from Ajax last summer for a reported €45 million.
Kvaratskhelia Injury Forces PSG to Consider Their Options
Kvaratskhelia was injured around two weeks ago and has since undergone surgery on his cruciate ligament. The injury is a major setback for PSG, who will be without one of their most influential attacking players for the remainder of the campaign.
The Georgian, nicknamed “Kvaradonna” by supporters, brings pace, creativity and a direct threat on the wing. Replacing those qualities is unlikely to be straightforward, particularly at this stage of the season. PSG must weigh whether to bring in a specialist winger, reshuffle their existing forwards or target a player capable of contributing in several positions.
Godts appeared to have an opportunity to move up the attacking pecking order following Kvaratskhelia’s injury. However, PSG’s reported interest in Maza suggests the club may prefer to strengthen the squad rather than rely on one player to fill the gap. Any new signing would not necessarily push Godts out of the team, but it could create greater competition for minutes and encourage tactical flexibility.
Why Ibrahim Maza Could Appeal to PSG
Maza’s appeal lies partly in his ability to operate between midfield and attack. He is primarily a number 10, where he can receive the ball in tight spaces, link play and create chances for teammates. Yet PSG reportedly believe he could also be used further forward, giving the coaching staff more than one way to deploy him.
That adaptability could be valuable while Kvaratskhelia is unavailable. Rather than seeking a like-for-like replacement, PSG may be looking for a young attacker who can cover multiple roles and develop into a long-term part of the project. Maza’s age and international experience make him an intriguing candidate: despite being only 20, he has already earned 24 caps for Algeria.
His club record also points to a player contributing beyond goals alone. Maza has scored eight goals and provided ten assists in 54 appearances for Bayer Leverkusen. Those figures reflect his involvement in the final third, while his creative role means his influence may also come through ball progression, combination play and chances created before the final pass.
Leverkusen Hold a Strong Negotiating Position
A move would not be simple. Maza is under contract with Leverkusen until the middle of 2030, giving the German club considerable control over his future. More importantly, Leverkusen are understood to have no intention of selling him and regard him as a key part of their plans for the years ahead.
The club are reportedly looking to renegotiate and extend his existing agreement, a sign that they want to secure his long-term commitment rather than prepare for an immediate departure. A new deal could strengthen Leverkusen’s position further, potentially making any approach from PSG more difficult and expensive.
For PSG, that means reported interest should not be confused with a likely transfer. The club may need to decide whether Maza is the right fit at a price Leverkusen would consider. They could also explore alternative targets or wait until a later window, depending on the urgency of their squad needs and the player’s own ambitions.
Transfer Prediction: A Difficult Deal for PSG
Transfer prediction: Maza appears to fit PSG’s profile as a young, versatile attacker, but Leverkusen’s position makes a deal challenging. His long contract, importance to the German side and the club’s reported desire to extend his terms all point towards a high asking price—or a refusal to negotiate altogether.
PSG’s decision will depend on how they plan to manage Kvaratskhelia’s absence. If they want an immediate replacement with established experience on the wing, Maza may not be a direct substitute. If they are instead seeking a flexible attacker with room to grow, his ability to play as a number 10 or further forward could make him a compelling option.
The situation also has implications for Godts. The young forward’s route to regular football could become more competitive if PSG add another attacker, but deeper squad strength may be essential for a club balancing domestic ambitions with European football. For now, the report places Maza among the names PSG are considering, while Leverkusen remain firmly in control of his future.
What Happens Next?
PSG are expected to assess their options as they adapt to the loss of Kvaratskhelia, while Leverkusen focus on keeping Maza as part of their long-term plans. Any transfer will depend on more than the player’s talent: timing, contract negotiations, valuation and the role PSG can offer will all matter.
For supporters following the football transfer market, Maza is a name to watch rather than a confirmed signing. His versatility and early career output explain PSG’s interest, but Leverkusen’s reluctance to sell means the story could develop slowly—or end without a move. Until negotiations become clearer, the most realistic prediction is that PSG will continue exploring alternatives while keeping the Algerian international on their shortlist.
