Kerim Alajbegovic is one of the most talked-about young players in European football right now. The 18-year-old left winger, who plays for Red Bull Salzburg, has been dazzling scouts across the continent — with Juventus among the clubs keeping a close watch on his progress.
Born in Cologne in 2007, Alajbegovic joined Salzburg last summer from Bayer Leverkusen for around €2 million. The German club included a buy-back clause, a sign of their belief in his long-term potential. That decision already looks wise: just a few months later, the youngster’s valuation is said to have soared to between €15 and €20 million, with Juventus, Milan and Bayern Munich all reportedly interested.
A Breakthrough Season
Compared to Kenan Yildiz and Florian Wirtz for his technical ability and maturity, Alajbegovic has adapted impressively to senior football. This season he has notched 11 goals and three assists in 33 appearances, starting 21 of those matches. Despite Salzburg’s early exit from the new Europa League format, Alajbegovic stood out — scoring twice in a home win against Basel.
Style and Attributes
Naturally ambidextrous and full of flair, Alajbegovic thrives on taking on defenders one-on-one. While he still needs to refine his decision-making, his confidence and creativity are already evident. He can finish in multiple ways — from curling efforts to first-time volleys — and shows an excellent vision for threading through passes to teammates.
On the International Stage
Though born in Germany, Alajbegovic represents Bosnia and Herzegovina at international level. After working his way through the youth ranks, he made his senior debut in September, scoring against San Marino and becoming the youngest goalscorer in his nation’s history in a competitive match.
Still early in his career, Alajbegovic is quickly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising young wingers — and it’s no surprise that Juventus are keeping him firmly on their radar.
