Arsenal’s hopes of signing Christian Kofane have been dealt a significant blow, with Bayer Leverkusen closing in on a contract extension that could keep the highly rated striker at the Bundesliga club until 2031.
Kofane, 20, is currently tied to Leverkusen until June 2029, but reports in Germany indicate that negotiations over a further two-year agreement are at an advanced stage. The proposed deal would strengthen the club’s position as interest in the Cameroon international continues to grow.
The forward first attracted Arsenal’s attention after impressing against Mikel Arteta’s side in last season’s Champions League round of 16. His pace, power and movement have since established him as a potential long-term option for the Gunners’ attack.
Arsenal face increased Christian Kofane asking price
Leverkusen’s decision to act now reflects Kofane’s rapid progress since arriving from Spanish second-tier side Albacete in July 2025. The club initially secured him on a contract running to 2029 after he scored eight goals in 20 appearances for Albacete’s first team.
His development has prompted interest from several Premier League clubs, with Arsenal understood to have maintained contact with his representatives. Sporting director Andrea Berta has reportedly followed the striker’s situation closely.
Kofane’s representatives have previously suggested that he could command a fee of around €100 million. Leverkusen are believed to regard that figure as a possible starting point rather than a ceiling, particularly if the player continues to improve.
Reports also indicate that the new contract is not expected to include a release clause. That would leave Leverkusen with considerable control over any future transfer negotiations and could make a move in January particularly difficult.
The striker’s profile remains attractive to Arsenal. He can operate through the middle or drift into wider areas, while his physical presence offers a different dimension to the attack.
However, Arteta’s squad already includes Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres as central attacking options. Committing more than €100m to a player who is still developing would therefore represent a major financial decision rather than an immediate necessity.
Arsenal are expected to continue monitoring Kofane, but Leverkusen’s planned extension means the Gunners may have to wait for the right opportunity — and pay a substantial premium if his progress continues.
