Bayer Leverkusen have set their sights on highly-rated winger Ernest Poku as they look to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.
The 21-year-old, who plies his trade with Dutch Eredivisie side AZ Alkmaar, has emerged as a top target for the Bundesliga club, according to reports from the Netherlands.
The German-born player of Ghanaian descent is reportedly attracting strong interest from Leverkusen, who view him as a direct replacement for Jeremie Frimpong following the latter’s high-profile move to Premier League side Liverpool.
Dutch outlet Soccernews.nl indicates that negotiations between Leverkusen and AZ Alkmaar are progressing steadily, with optimism on both sides that a deal could be finalised before the current transfer window closes.
Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is believed to be an admirer of Poku’s talent, and appear to be leading the race for his signature.
Turkish giants Beşiktaş have also entered the picture, monitoring the situation closely as they consider a move of their own for the speedy winger.
Despite representing the Netherlands at youth level, Poku remains eligible to feature for Ghana at senior international level due to his heritage.