The next Jadon Sancho? Bayer Leverkusen sign teenage winger with 'impressive goal rate and tremendous speed' from Man City

Leverkusen have announced the signing of teenage winger Alfa-Ruprecht from City's Under 21 side. The 19-year-old German youth international has agreed a contract that runs until 30 June 2030. Sporting director Simon Rolfes highlighted Alfa-Ruprecht's "impressive goalscoring rate, tremendous speed and great footballing talent" as key factors behind the move, while director of football Kim Falkenberg identified him as a player with potential to become an important first-team member in the future.

Alfa-Ruprecht, born in Hamburg and of Ghanaian descent, joined City from HSV's academy three years ago. Known primarily as a right winger, he is also comfortable on the left, utilising his strong right foot to threaten the goal. Leverkusen continue to invest in promising young talent as they build for the future, and Alfa-Ruprecht's profile aligns with the club’s strategy of recruiting versatile, pacey attackers. The long-term contract underlines Leverkusen’s confidence in his ability to establish himself in the Bundesliga. This comes after Pep Guardiola's side retain 40 per cent sell-on clause.

Alfa-Ruprecht's signing follows the model of previous Bundesliga stars to emerge from English academies, with Jadon Sancho, formerly of Borussia Dortmund, a notable example. The winger’s track record in the Premier League 2, where he delivered an above-average goal contribution for a wide player, made him a standout in City's youth ranks.

"Farid Alfa-Ruprecht has caught the eye as a winger in the English U21 league," said managing director of sport Rolfes. "An impressive goalscoring rate, tremendous speed and great footballing talent make him a highly interesting candidate for our first team."

Alfa-Ruprecht will join Leverkusen for pre-season preparations and compete for a place in the first team as the club readies for the upcoming Bundesliga campaign. With the German club set to participate in both domestic and European competitions, he could make his debut in either tournament should he settle quickly and impress the new manager, Erik Ten Hag. Leverkusen will monitor his integration and development closely, with a view to him following in the footsteps of other successful young wingers in the league.