Christian Kofane has said he would be open to a move to the Premier League in the future but remains committed to Bayer Leverkusen ahead of the new season.
The 20-year-old striker joined Leverkusen from Spanish second-tier outfit Albacete last summer and showed glimpses of his promise in an encouraging debut Bundesliga season. He finished the campaign with seven goals and nine assists in 44 appearances.
Champions League impact
Kofane's most notable contribution came in the Champions League last-16, where he impressed in both legs against eventual runners-up Arsenal. He held his own against Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba and was unfortunate not to score in the second meeting, with David Raya saving late on at the Emirates.
Reports from Germany claimed Arsenal were so impressed they discussed a summer move, which was seemingly confirmed by his agent Eric Depolo.
Agent confirms interest
'Yes, Arsenal's interest is genuine,' Depolo told Daily Arsenal. 'The manager [Mikel Arteta] likes him very much.' Asked about other interested clubs, Depolo listed Chelsea, Newcastle, Everton, Brentford, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
Depolo suggested Arteta and William Saliba's presence put Arsenal in 'pole position' to sign the Cameroon international. 'I think it is too early to say [which club is leading the race],' he said. 'But due to the fact that the player speaks Spanish, like Mikel Arteta, and that William Saliba is originally from Cameroon, I would say Arsenal are in pole position.'
'There is contact between me and Arsenal. But their focus right now is to win the league – from there everything will start moving.'
Depolo claimed Kofane is a 'complete' striker and a €100million (£85m) player, saying Arsenal would have a top striker for the next ten years.
Kofane's stance
In the intervening months, Everton are believed to have stepped up their interest, reportedly enquiring over a deal. Kofane told German newspaper Kicker: 'I can certainly imagine it, yes. It's one of the best leagues in the world. But I want to take it step by step. I'm young and still have big plans with Bayer Leverkusen.'
He underlined he is 'very comfortable' at Leverkusen and not considering leaving. 'Bayer Leverkusen a great club that has given me a great opportunity and a lot of confidence. I feel very comfortable here.' His contract runs through to June 2029.
