PSG Transfer Prediction: Algerian Prospect Ibrahim Maza Emerges as a Possible January Target
Paris Saint-Germain’s winter transfer plans could be shaped by a major injury. Georgian forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is expected to miss an extended period after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, prompting the European champions to assess whether they need another attacking option. One name attracting attention is Algerian international Ibrahim Maza, the versatile Bayer Leverkusen youngster.
A move is far from certain, and PSG have not publicly confirmed plans to make a signing. But reports from Germany suggest the club’s interest is more than routine scouting. If Paris decide to pursue the 20-year-old in January, they would be targeting a player capable of covering several positions across midfield and attack—not simply a direct replacement for Kvaratskhelia.
Injury reshapes PSG’s January transfer picture
Kvaratskhelia’s absence leaves PSG with a significant gap in their forward options, particularly given his ability to carry the ball, create chances and threaten defenders from wide areas. His injury has therefore added urgency to the club’s transfer prediction for January, even though head coach Luis Enrique has stressed that injuries do not automatically lead to new arrivals.
“No injury means that we have to sign new players,” Enrique said, while making clear that PSG remain open to opportunities in the market. He has previously expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to cope with setbacks, but the scale of Kvaratskhelia’s injury could prompt the club to reconsider its depth as the season progresses.
The coach also voiced confidence that the Georgian will return strongly. Rather than framing the injury as a reason for panic, Enrique described the situation as a challenge for the team. PSG’s immediate performances may help determine whether that confidence is enough—or whether the club decides that additional cover is needed.
Young players offer internal alternatives
PSG have already seen encouraging contributions from players within the squad. Belgian winger Mika Godts scored and assisted in a 2-0 win over Olympique Lyonnais, while young talents Quentin Ndjantou and Senny Mayulu also made positive impressions. Their performances give Enrique options to consider before the club commits to a costly winter transfer.
That internal competition matters. A new signing would need to offer more than short-term cover: PSG are likely to weigh the player’s tactical fit, development potential and ability to contribute in high-pressure matches. Maza’s age and positional range could make him attractive, but a transfer would depend on Leverkusen’s willingness to negotiate and the French club’s assessment of its existing squad.
Reports point to concrete PSG interest in Maza
Sky Germany has reported that PSG have shown “concrete interest” in Maza and that the player’s representatives are aware of the Paris club’s attention. That does not mean an agreement is close, nor does it confirm that a formal offer has been submitted. It does, however, place the Algerian among the names to watch as the January transfer window approaches.
If a deal were completed, Maza would become the second Arab player in PSG’s squad, joining Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi, an established member of the team’s leadership group. For Algerian supporters, the possibility of seeing one of their national team’s emerging talents move to a European giant would add another layer of interest to the transfer story.
Why Maza’s versatility could appeal to Luis Enrique
Maza’s strongest position is as an attacking midfielder, where he can operate centrally behind a striker and influence play between the lines. He has also featured in deeper midfield roles and on both wings. On the left, he can move into the inside channels rather than staying close to the touchline, while from the right he is comfortable cutting in to create or shoot.
That flexibility could suit Enrique’s approach, which often asks players to rotate positions, press aggressively and adapt as matches develop. Rather than being limited to one role, Maza could provide cover across several areas of the pitch. His profile has drawn comparisons with Monaco’s French playmaker Maghnes Akliouche, particularly in the way he can drift infield from a wide starting position.
In an interview with the Bundesliga’s official website, Maza said the number 10 role in a 4-2-3-1 formation is where he feels most comfortable. He also explained that he is willing to play as a number six or eight, or on either wing. His emphasis, he said, is on expressing his style regardless of his position.
Leverkusen have little reason to sell
Any PSG transfer prediction involving Maza must account for Bayer Leverkusen’s position. The German club signed him in 2025 for a reported €12 million and view him as an important part of their future. Foot Mercato has reported that Leverkusen do not want to part with the youngster and are working on extending his contract, which currently runs until 2030.
Maza’s growing reputation may also push the price well beyond his original transfer fee. Transfermarkt values him at around €50 million, although a valuation is not the same as a confirmed asking price. With a long contract and no reported desire to sell, Leverkusen would be in a strong negotiating position if PSG made an official approach.
Since joining the club, Maza has recorded eight goals and 10 assists in 54 appearances for Leverkusen, according to the figures cited in reports. He has also earned 24 caps for Algeria and scored three international goals. Those numbers, combined with his age and adaptability, help explain why he is attracting attention from clubs operating at the highest level.
Transfer prediction: interest is clear, but a deal remains complicated
For now, Maza is a plausible target rather than a confirmed PSG signing. Kvaratskhelia’s injury gives Paris a reason to explore the market, and reports of concrete interest make the link credible. Yet Leverkusen’s reluctance to sell, Maza’s long contract and the likely cost all stand between initial attention and a completed transfer.
PSG may ultimately decide that their emerging players can cover the absence, or they could pursue another profile better suited to an immediate role. The key question is whether the club sees Maza as a short-term solution or a longer-term investment. Either way, his versatility has placed him firmly on the winter-watch list—and the coming weeks should reveal whether Paris turn their reported interest into a formal move.
