Bayer Leverkusen in talks to acquire rising Brighton prospect Harry Howell (19) | OneFootball

Florian Plettenberg reports that Bayer Leverkusen and several other unnamed Bundesliga clubs are interested in Brighton attacking midfield prospect Harry Howell. The 17-year-old still features for the Brighton U21 squad, but made a brief appearance with the first team late last season. This year, Howell has scored a goal and registered two assists in two EFL Cup appearances. 

Plettenberg doesn’t list the specific other German football clubs potentially interested in the Worthington-native. Leverkusen’s interest is said to be very concrete. The Sky journalist notes that initial talks over a potential summer transfer have already taken place. Howell, after his brief appearances last spring, is technically the youngster ever professional to represent the Seagulls in the Premier League.

What Bayer Leverkusen could offer Howell

Germany’s red company team – unlike most Bundesliga clubs – do not have an official reserve squad. Leverkusen’s “B-team” (B04 U19) competes in a separate German Youth League just like in the English footballing system. The manner in which Bayer’s developmental program is structured enables a high proportion of U19 players to serve on the Champions League squad.

C04 Youth thus often receives plenty of opportunity on Europe’s grandest stage. Prior to his early recall to Manchester City, Argentine prospect Claudio Echeverri received five UCL deployments this autumn. With several Leverkusen players off on AFCON duty this past weekend, 18-year-old German-American prospect Montrell Culbreath received a chance with the Leverkusen first team and ended up scoring his first Bundesliga goal. 

The Leverkusen program may accord the young England U18 International may be accorded similar opportunities to showcase himself on the right platforms. Both Florian Wirtz and Kai Havertz were able to successfully build themselves up within the uniquely structured B04 developmental program. 

GGFN | Peter Weis