Eichhorn broke into Hertha's first team in 2025-26 Maja Hitij/Getty ImagesJune 10, 2026 6:58 am EDT Updated Bayer Leverkusen have overcome fierce competition to sign Hertha Berlin talent Kennet Eichhorn — one of European football’s most coveted young players.Eichhorn was being pursued by top clubs in Germany and England but chose to continue his career with the 2024 Bundesliga champions.Leverkusen’s pursuit was led by managing director Simon Rolfes and director of football Kim Falkenberg, the executives operating somewhat under the radar to secure the 16-year-old defensive midfielder.Given the strength of interest from elsewhere, few tipped Leverkusen to win the race for Eichhorn and many will regard this as a significant coup.They will activate a release clause in his contract, allowing the Germany youth international to travel and put pen to paper as all parties work to complete the relevant paperwork.Eichhorn broke into Hertha’s first team in the 2025-26 campaign, making 17 appearances in the 2. Bundesliga — the second tier of German football. He has represented Germany up to under-17 level.
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