A compelling transfer saga is unfolding in the Premier League as clubs vie for the signature of Amine Adli, the highly-rated Bayer Leverkusen forward. Sunderland and West Ham United are reportedly at the forefront of this pursuit, with a significant £19.5 million valuation set by the German champions for their versatile attacking talent.
Reports from French journalist Julien Laurens indicate that Sunderland is poised to make a formal offer this weekend for the 25-year-old Morocco international. Wolverhampton Wanderers are also said to be preparing a bid, while West Ham United are closely monitoring the evolving situation. Bayer Leverkusen, fresh off their historic unbeaten Bundesliga campaign, has reportedly signaled their willingness to sanction a sale should their €23 million (£19.5 million) asking price be met.
Adli, born in Béziers, France, embarked on his professional journey with Toulouse before making a significant move to Leverkusen in 2021. Since then, he has consistently evolved into a dynamic and highly adaptable offensive asset, playing a pivotal role in Xabi Alonso’s treble-chasing squad that clinched the 2023-24 Bundesliga title without a single defeat.
His impressive attributes include operating effectively as a winger, an attacking midfielder, or a secondary striker. Adli’s distinctive direct style, relentless pressing intensity, and intelligent link-up play have collectively established him as an exceptionally attractive target for clubs eager to infuse both creativity and a robust work rate into their attacking formations.
During the most recent Bundesliga season, Adli contributed four goals and six assists, showcasing his consistent offensive output. Beyond his league performances, he also played a crucial role in Leverkusen’s successful cup and European campaigns, further solidifying his reputation as a player capable of delivering on multiple fronts.
Crucially for the prospective Premier League suitors, Laurens’ reports confirm Adli’s strong desire for a move to England’s top flight. This personal preference could significantly bolster Sunderland’s position in the high-stakes football transfer race. However, the competition is formidable, with Wolves benefiting from a more established top-tier status and West Ham possessing the financial capacity to potentially outbid rivals for wide attacking talent if necessary.
Adli first gained widespread recognition during the 2020-21 Ligue 2 season with Toulouse, where his eight goals and seven assists earned him the division’s Player of the Season award, paving the way for his eventual Bundesliga move. On the international stage, he made his debut for Morocco in 2023, after representing France at youth levels. He has since earned 15 caps for his nation, including a goal in a 3-0 victory over Liberia during Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.
Despite earlier career speculation linking him with European giants like Real Madrid, sources close to Adli suggest that his primary focus is now securing regular game time. This aspiration aligns perfectly with Sunderland’s ambition to make a strong impact upon their return to the Premier League under the guidance of Régis Le Bris, potentially offering him a prominent role that competitive clubs might not guarantee.
