Bayer Leverkusen set for squad overhaul following Bundesliga disappointment

Bayer Leverkusen set for squad overhaul following Bundesliga disappointment

Bayer Leverkusen, who fell short of securing a Champions League spot with a sixth-place finish in the Bundesliga, are gearing up for a summer rebuild.

According to Kicker, the club boasts the fourth-highest salary in the Bundesliga, but changes are on the horizon. Moussa Diaby and Jeremie Frimpong, tied to contracts until 2025, have emerged as potential candidates for a departure.

The Leverkusen hierarchy anticipates a substantial windfall from the sale of Diaby and Frimpong, with the duo expected to fetch a combined fee of approximately ‚¬100 million. A portion of these funds will then be reinvested to bolster the squad.

Jonathan Tah, the German central-defender, is also likely to bid farewell to Leverkusen this summer, with a reported exit clause set at ‚¬18 million. Clubs from England and Italy are vying for Tah's signature, and if the transfer materializes, Leverkusen stands to gain around ‚¬120 million.

The Leverkusen management have not concealed their willingness to part ways with Diaby, provided a suitable offer materializes. Arsenal, Newcastle United, and PSG have all expressed significant interest in the Frenchman, who contributed to 25 goals (14 goals, 11 assists) in 48 appearances across all competitions this season.

Last month, Sport Bild reported that Newcastle were preparing an offer for Diaby. Additionally, Tah has garnered attention from Premier League clubs, including West Ham United, who recently clinched their first European trophy since 1965.

While Leverkusen contemplates player sales, they have also been proactive in the transfer market.

The club has secured the signing of Arthur (20) for ‚¬7 million, set to join in the summer. Furthermore, Leverkusen recently announced the capture of Alex Grimaldo on a free transfer from Benfica. The club is reportedly finalizing a deal for Arsenal's Granit Xhaka, which is expected to progress after the conclusion of the Champions League final.