West Ham target Leverkusen star Aleix Garcia in bold Premier League move | OneFootball

West Ham have identified Bayer Leverkusen’s midfielder Aleix Garcia as a “concrete” priority for the upcoming summer transfer window, according to report from Fussballdaten.

The 28-year-old, who has been a key player for Leverkusen, is currently regarded as the most ‘serious’ target for the Hammers as they look to inject world-class creativity into their engine room.

The Hammers’ interest is not new, having attempted to sign him back in 2024 as well.

Garcia is having an impressive season, contributing nine assists and five goals across all competitions.

West Ham face competition from Atletico Madrid

While West Ham are leading the interest from the Premier League, they face a formidable rival in Atletico Madrid.

Diego Simeone is reportedly desperate to bring Garcia back to Spain as a replacement for Conor Gallagher, who recently joined Tottenham.

Atletico previously failed with an inquiry in January, but the report suggests that they are returning with a €25 million offer.

Leverkusen, however, are holding firm. Despite Garcia’s market value sitting around €20 million, the German champions have reportedly set the price at €30 million (£25m), refusing to part with their playmaker for anything less.

West Ham face serious relegation risk

Despite the club’s ambitious transfer plans, West Ham’s pursuit of Garcia could heavily depend on their Premier League status.

The Hammers are currently involved in a relegation battle, sitting 18th in the table with just 29 points from 31 games.

With only seven matches remaining and trailing 17th-placed Tottenham by a single point, the London Stadium outfit is facing its most uncertain end-of-season run in years.

A player of Garcia’s quality is unlikely to entertain a move to the Championship, which is why the club’s Premier League status could play a decisive factor in the player’s decision.

Garcia’s rise: From Manchester City academy to Bundesliga star

García’s journey has come full circle. Once a prospect in Manchester City’s academy, he truly found his footing at Girona before exploding under Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen.

Now thriving under the tactical shift at the BayArena, he has become one of Europe’s most impressive midfielders.

Aleix Garcia stats across various positions via Transfermarkt

Whether he chooses a return to his homeland or a high-profile return to England, Garcia is set to be one of the summer’s most sought-after signatures.