Bayer Leverkusen knocked back in wonderkid chase! Monaco reject opening bid for Eliesse Ben Seghir as Borussia Dortmund consider rival bid

Bayer Leverkusen have had their opening offer for AS Monaco starlet Eliesse Ben Seghir turned down, with the French club demanding a significantly higher fee, according to Fabrizio Romano. Leverkusen reportedly tabled a bid worth around €25 million (£21m/$29m), but Monaco are holding firm for a figure closer to €35m (£30m/$41m)-40m (£34m/$46m).

The 20-year-old winger, regarded as one of Ligue 1’s brightest prospects, has also attracted interest from Borussia Dortmund, who have made contact in the past 24 hours to monitor the situation. While Leverkusen’s opening proposal matched Ben Seghir’s current market valuation, Monaco remain reluctant to sell on the cheap, with French outlets confirming that they expect a premium for their highly-rated Moroccan talent.

His future at Monaco is growing increasingly uncertain after limited playing time, a shaky preseason, and strained relations with coach Adi Hutter. Leverkusen view him as a direct replacement for Amine Adli, who is set to join Bournemouth, while Dortmund are considering him as part of their midfield rebuild. With two Bundesliga giants circling, Monaco are bracing for further bids before the window closes.

Ben Seghir’s emergence at Monaco was one of Ligue 1’s standout stories last season, but his momentum has stalled badly in recent months. Coming off the bench in the season opener against Le Havre, he failed to leave a mark, raising further doubts over his role under Hutter. Dortmund, meanwhile, are weighing whether to rival B04’s bid in what could become one of the Bundesliga’s late-window transfer battles.

Leverkusen are expected to return soon with an improved offer as they look to close the gap to Monaco’s valuation, while Dortmund will remain in the loop and could launch their own bid if talks stall. With the player keen on a move and Monaco reluctant to sell below €35m (£30m/$41m), the next few days could prove decisive for his future.