United’s hunt for incredible midfield maestro ends as Euro club strikes deal first – Fabrizio Romano

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Manchester United’s hopes of signing Hertha Berlin talent Kennet Eichhorn are all but over. Tough battle Since INEOS chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe assumed operational control of United, the club has placed a greater emphasis on signing young players who can be nurtured to potentially become world-class. Over the past few windows, United have signed the likes of Sekou Kone, Patrick Dorgu, Leny Yoro, Diego Leon, Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi, just to name a few. Widely seen as one of the best up-and-coming talents in Europe, Eichhorn drew the focused attention of United. Eichhorn broke into Hertha’s first team in the 2025/26 season, making 17 appearances in the 2.Bundesliga. He has also represented Germany at U17 level. Eichhorn’s incredible ball control and composure in possession have often invited comparisons with Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United would have to ward off stiff competition from cross-town rivals Manchester City to land the 16-year-old. He was also linked to Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. However, it’s Bayer Leverkusen who have won the race to snap up the highly-rated midfield sensation. Eichhorn blow Romano wrote on X, “Kennet Eichorn has just completed his medical as new Bayer Leverkusen player. Deal done for one of the best talents in Germany.” “Several English and German clubs keen but Eichorn picks Leverkusen project. €9m release clause has been activated.” “Contract until June 2031, as @Plettigoal @SkySportDE reported.” 🚨 Kennet Eichorn has just completed his medical as new Bayer Leverkusen player. Deal done for one of the best talents in Germany. Several English and German clubs keen but Eichorn picks Leverkusen project. €9m release clause has been activated. Contract until June 2031, as… pic.twitter.com/0tkgnCBFpm — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 10, 2026 This has been reiterated by David Ornstein of The Athletic, who notes that Leverkusen’s pursuit of the United target was spearheaded by managing director Simon Rolfes and director of football Kim Falkenberg, who operated under the radar to get ahead of other suitors. Leverkusen will activate a release clause in Eichhorn’s Hertha contract. Featured image Christian Kaspar-Bartke via Getty The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!