Arsenal and Tottenham target Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Ibrahim Maza

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have both turned their scouting focus to 20‑year‑old Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Ibrahim Maza, seeing him as a potential solution to their need for creative depth in midfield. The Algerian international has already recorded a goal and an assist in this season’s Bundesliga, prompting a Premier League tug‑of‑war.

A report from TEAMtalk both Premier League clubs have been tracking Maza’s performances this season. Chelsea, Manchester City and Aston Villa are also listed as monitoring the Algerian playmaker. Man also appears in the list of interested clubs.

Arsenal eye midfield creativity

Arsenal view Maza as a possible reinforcement for their midfield depth. Maza’s capacity to operate in advanced zones and generate chances aligns with Mikel Arteta’s desire for more creative outlets. The Gunners could deploy him alongside their existing midfield cohort to diversify their attacking patterns.

The 20‑year‑old’s proven ability to contribute directly – one goal and one assist in the Bundesliga so far – offers a tangible boost. Arteta’s side have struggled to consistently break down compact defences, and Maza’s forward‑thinking mindset may help unlock stubborn opponents. Arsenal’s scouting department believes his skill set matches the club’s evolving tactical blueprint.

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Tottenham chase attacking versatility

Tottenham Hotspur are assessing Maza for a similar but slightly different purpose. His comfort both centrally and on the flanks could provide Spurs with greater flexibility in the final third. The club’s recent need for additional creative firepower makes his profile particularly appealing.

Having already logged a goal and an assist for Leverkusen, Maza demonstrates a knack for influencing games in the attacking third. Tottenham’s manager has hinted at the importance of players who can switch positions fluidly, and Maza fits that description. The North London side see him as a potential answer to their sporadic goal‑creation issues.

Maza has also shone on the international stage, scoring and assisting in Algeria’s 3‑1 win over Zambia in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying on Friday. His displays in Germany have reinforced his reputation as an emerging talent across Europe. Bayer Leverkusen, however, consider him a key component of their plans and will be reluctant to let him leave without a substantial offer.

With Arsenal, Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City and Aston Villa all circling, competition for his signature is set to intensify in the coming months. A Premier League move would represent a significant step in Maza’s career, yet his immediate future remains uncertain as clubs weigh the player’s price and potential impact.