Key Takeaways:
- Bayer Leverkusen agreed a €30 million transfer fee with Sevilla for Loic Bade
- Bade rejected a move to Bournemouth and was also linked with Inter
- Leverkusen aim to finalise the signing before their Bundesliga opener against Hoffenheim this weekend
Transfer Negotiations Progress
Bayer Leverkusen are closing in on the acquisition of Loic Bade from Sevilla, after the German side reached an agreement with the Spanish club for a transfer fee of €30 million (£25m/$35m), as reported by Footmercato. The deal, which will see a player under contract until 2029 move to the Bundesliga, is now contingent on settling personal terms with the defender. This is anticipated to be a formality, with Bade understood to be keen on the move following discussions about Leverkusen’s sporting ambitions and European prospects.
Defender’s Career Trajectory and Interest
Sevilla secured Bade on a permanent basis in January 2023, having initially brought him in on loan from Rennes the previous summer, investing €12 million (£10m/$14m). Since his arrival, Bade has featured in 60 matches for Sevilla and lifted the 2023 Europa League trophy. His progress has also been recognised at the international level, earning his first call-up to the French national team for the Nations League fixture against Germany under Didier Deschamps. Such performances have drawn attention from various clubs across Europe. Bade opted to turn down an offer from Bournemouth and was reportedly attracting interest from Inter as well.
Leverkusen Defensive Reshuffle
Leverkusen have been active in reinforcing their backline following a series of high-profile departures during the summer. Jonathan Tah’s exit to Bayern Munich, alongside Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong’s moves to Liverpool and Granit Xhaka’s switch to Sunderland, has necessitated urgent recruitment. In response, the club have secured the signings of Jarell Quansah from Liverpool, 20-year-old Abdoulaye Faye from Hacken, and Tim Oermann from Bochum. At 25, Bade could offer both experience and stability, qualities head coach Erik ten Hag is reportedly seeking for the new campaign.
| Player | Previous Club | Transfer Fee | Appearances (Prior Club) | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loic Bade | Sevilla | €30 million | 60 | 2023 Europa League winner, France national team call-up |
Looking Ahead
Leverkusen are hopeful of finalising the signing in advance of their first Bundesliga match of the season, which sees them host Hoffenheim this weekend. The addition of Bade could provide a timely boost to Erik ten Hag’s squad as they look to solidify their defensive options ahead of the new campaign.
