He had an invitation from one of the biggest clubs in Europe, but the desire to continue developing in his homeland was more important - midfielder and child prodigy Kenneth Eichhorn moved from Hertha to Bayer Leverkusen.
"We are very happy that we were able to convince Eichhorn of our project. We were already in contact with Kenneth and his family a year ago and we created a good relationship then," Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes said late last night.
The Bundesliga side reportedly used a clause in the player's contract with Hertha to bring him in for just under ten million euros, and the 16-year-old wanted to stay in Germany even though he also had an offer from Liverpool.
"We now have one of Germany's greatest talents in our ranks," said Leverkusen's sporting director.
Kenneth Eichhorn became Hertha's youngest professional player when he made his debut last August. He joined Hertha's youth system in 2017.
"At Hertha I embarked on a path that shaped me. Every year, in every team, I felt trust and support and I am incredibly grateful for that," said Eichhorn.
Leverkusen announced that Kenneth Eichhorn has signed a "long-term contract" and will wear the number 18 jersey.
"Leverkusen is a club that has developed numerous players, even very young ones, into top professionals. I will do everything I can to follow a similar path. I am really looking forward to my next steps at a top European club," he said.
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