Bayer Leverkusen has reportedly made contact with Manchester City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega’s representatives, exploring the possibility of signing him this summer.
The 32-year-old German has played second fiddle to Ederson at City, starting just 10 Premier League games this season.
Ortega’s Quest for Regular Game Time
Ortega is believed to be keen on playing more regularly as a number one goalkeeper.
Unless Ederson leaves City this summer, Ortega may face another season as a backup option.
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Leverkusen sees an opportunity to sign Ortega, who could battle for the number one jersey with 35-year-old Lukas Hradecky.
Transfer Details and Competition
Bild reports that Leverkusen could sign Ortega for around €8m (£6.7m).
However, the Bundesliga champions also have other goalkeepers on their radar, including Espanyol’s Joan Garcia, who is considered their “dream acquisition.”
Arsenal is also interested in Garcia, but Leverkusen may hold an advantage in the race to sign him by offering first-team football.
Ortega: A Top Alternative to Garcia
If Leverkusen misses out on signing Garcia, Ortega is viewed as a top alternative.
He brings experience and counts as a home-grown player, which would be beneficial when selecting their European squad for next season.
Manchester City may prefer to keep Ortega as a backup, but Pep Guardiola is unlikely to stand in his way if he decides to leave.
Leverkusen’s Goalkeeper Options
Meanwhile, Leverkusen is also considering a move for Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken.
Initial talks have taken place, and Flekken is reportedly planning to take a bigger step this summer.
With several top goalkeepers on their radar, Leverkusen is poised to make a significant signing this summer.
