Bayer Leverkusen have reportedly stepped up their interest in Manchester City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 32-year-old joined the Citizens on a free transfer from Arminia Bielefeld in July 2022 and has since made 50 appearances across all competitions, winning seven trophies including two Premier League titles, one FA Cup and one Champions League.
However, the majority of Ortega's spell at the Etihad Stadium has seen him play second fiddle to first-choice shot-stopper Ederson, with the uncapped German starting just 10 Premier League games this season.
Last summer, Ortega was persuaded to sign a new two-year contract at Man City until 2026, but speculation over his long-term future with Pep Guardiola's side has since surfaced.
Ortega is believed to be keen to play more regularly as a number one goalkeeper and unless Saudi Pro League-linked Ederson leaves the Etihad this summer, the German may experience another season as a backup option.
© Imago
Leverkusen 'make contact' with Man City's Ortega
Now in the prime years of his career as a goalkeeper, Ortega could be tempted by a summer transfer in search of regular game time, and Bild reports that Bayer Leverkusen are interested in his services.
The report adds that last season's Bundesliga champions have made contract with Ortega's representatives and could sign the Man City man for around €8m (£6.7m).
Ortega is said to be an option that is being considered by Leverkusen to come in and battle for the number one jersey with 35-year-old Lukas Hradecky, while Matej Kovar will be allowed to leave the club at the end of the season.
Leverkusen also have other goalkeepers on their radar including Espanyol's Joan Garcia, who is believed to be the 'dream acquisition' for Xabi Alonso's side.
© Imago
Ortega a 'top alternative' to Arsenal-linked Garcia for Leverkusen
Arsenal have also been credited with an interest in Garcia, but with the Gunners eyeing him as a backup to number one David Raya, it is claimed that Leverkusen may hold an advantage in the race to sign the Spaniard as they can offer him first-team football.
However, should Leverkusen miss out on signing Garcia, Ortega is viewed as a 'top alternative' and not only offers experience but also counts as a home-grown player which would come in handy when Die Werkself select their European squad for next season.
While Man City may like to keep Ortega as a backup goalkeeper, Guardiola is unlikely to stand in his way if he decides to seek pastures new this summer, as has been the case with several other players who has asked to leave in recent years including Kyle Walker and Julian Alvarez.
Meanwhile, Sky Deutschland reporter Florian Plettenberg claims that Leverkusen are also seriously considering a move for Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken and initial talks have already taken place over signing the 31-year-old Dutchman, who is 'planning to take a bigger step' in the summer.
Oliver Thomas
