Bayer Leverkusen are plotting an ambitious summer move for Manchester City’s highly-rated backup goalkeeper, Stefan Ortega. As per German outlet BILD, the Bundesliga champions are keen to bolster their goalkeeping ranks and have identified the 32-year-old German as a prime target. City, meanwhile, are expected to demand around €8 million to sanction his departure.
Ortega’s Rise at Manchester City
Since arriving from Arminia Bielefeld in 2022, Ortega has quietly built a reputation as one of the most dependable No.2s in the Premier League. Despite Ederson’s status as the first-choice keeper, Ortega has impressed whenever called upon — notching 1,500 minutes in 16 appearances this season, with four clean sheets to his name.
With Ederson’s form dipping at times, Ortega stepped in and held his own, showcasing sharp reflexes, composure under pressure, and solid distribution — qualities that haven’t gone unnoticed in Europe.
Bundesliga Bound?
Leverkusen’s interest in Ortega is not without reason. Club captain Lukas Hradecky is nearing the twilight of his career, and Matej Kovar has struggled to convince manager Xabi Alonso. A return to the Bundesliga could offer Ortega regular game time and the chance to be a key figure for the reigning champions.
With just a year left on his contract, €8 million could be a bargain for a keeper of Ortega’s quality. Leverkusen will hope to beat off competition — including rumoured interest from Atletico Madrid — to secure his signature this summer.
