Bayer Leverkusen are considering a move to sign Arsenal target Thilo Kehrer from Paris Saint-Germain to solve their needs at centre and right-back this summer, per Kicker.
Boss Gerardo Seoane wants to strengthen the BayArena backline after replacing Peter Bosz in the dugout. Die Werkself believe they are short of options ahead of the new Bundesliga season and would like to solve two defensive needs in one by signing PSG outcast Kehrer.
The German’s future at le Parc des Princes looks increasingly bleak following the arrival of Sergio Ramos. Foot Mercato had already reported that Paris Saint-Germain are willing to sell Kehrer, as well, to help balance the books after pursuing Achraf Hakimi.
Seoane could now capitalise on Kehrer’s uncertainty at Paris Saint-Germain, which would see Bayer Leverkusen rival Arsenal for the defender. Paris Fans claim Mikel Arteta’s side bid €9m (£7.5m) for the German in May, but PSG want around €25m (£21.5m).
Even at that price Paris Saint-Germain would be accepting a loss on their £33m investment. The French giants bet big on the highly-rated Schalke talent in 2018, believing he would represent their present and future. But the move has, seemingly, not worked out.
Bayer Leverkusen also have an alternative on their shortlist if a move to sign Arsenal target Kehrer does not materialise. The Bundesliga side also admire Talleres talent Piero Hincapie, who can play at centre and full-back, as well.
But 19-year-old Hincapie is more at home playing at left-back than on the right of the defensive line. Whereas Kehrer is comfortable playing anywhere in the back four and can also feature as the holding midfielder.
Tuchel waxed lyrical over Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen target Kehrer at PSG
Thomas Tuchel greatly admired Kehrer’s ability to play in multiple positions during the Chelsea boss’ time in charge at PSG. But his successor, Mauricio Pochettino, has not shown the same support since taking over from the German coach in January.
Tuchel particularly favoured Kehrer during his debut year at the helm, awarding the 24-year-old 27 Ligue 1 appearances in 2018/19. A serious foot injury would dent his availability the following year, while adductor problems surfaced in 2020/21. After that, Pochettino took over and started the nine-cap international in 10 of his 15 league outings.
Tuchel further claimed of now Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen target Kehrer while at Paris Saint-Germain, via the club’s website: “Thilo is a very committed player, very professional. He’s quick, able to play in any of the four positions at the back, is two-footed, and can even play as a defensive midfielder. He’s the sort of player any coach would like to have.”
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