Bayer Leverkusen leading the race for Mainz 05’s Brajan Gruda

Sport Bild reports that Mainz 05 winger Brajan Gurda is leaning towards leaving the club this summer and Bayer Leverkusen are leading the race for him.

Several teams have shown interest in Gruda, from Bayern Munich to RB Leipzig as well as teams from the Premier League. It has previously been said that Gruda dreams of joining Bayern. However a move id now unlikely with the arrival of Michael Olise as well as the potential move for Xavi Simons this summer.

This makes Leverkusen the most likely move. Gruda would like to play under head coach Xabi Alonso as well as alongside Florian Wirtz. Gruda sees his compatriots development under Alonso as an example of how he wants his career to be.

However, it will be difficult to prise Gruda away from Mainz and it could cost more than €50m. Mainz have previously stated their desire to keep the winger for another season. This means a move for Gruda would have to smash Leverkusen’s transfer record.

GGFN | Jack Meenan