Maza admits his "huge dream" of joining PSG despite obstacles

Ibrahim Maza has openly expressed his desire to join Paris Saint-Germain, placing the French club alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona and Arsenal among his dream destinations. The Algerian international from Bayer Leverkusen made this statement on Wednesday to Sky Germany, reigniting rumors that are nonetheless hampered by several concrete obstacles.

“Of course, it would be a huge dream to one day play for such a great club. I think we all know how immense Paris is as a club,” the 20-year-old attacking midfielder confided, before adding: “It’s one of the best clubs in the world. Playing for a club like that is something I’m working towards, not just me, but many other footballers too.”

These statements come at a time when the prospect appears closed in the short term. PSG would have no intention of opening negotiations for a player valued at 50 million euros on Transfermarkt. On Leverkusen’s side, the defending German champions do not wish to part with the former Hertha Berlin player and are even seeking to extend his contract, which already runs until 2030.

Maza’s name had emerged in the English press in the context of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s lengthy injury. PSG manager Luis Enrique, however, tempered expectations at a recent press conference: “No, not particularly. No injury means we have to sign new players. But we remain open to opportunities.”

PSG has also reportedly reactivated another lead, that of Eli Junior Kroupi, 20, Bournemouth striker and former Lorient player, who has just recovered from injury. Maza’s statements should in any case not accelerate a matter that neither Paris nor Leverkusen seem eager to open.