Bayer Leverkusen news: James McAtee among names linked to the BayArena as Florian Wirtz exit nears
Bayer Leverkusen are set to undergo a huge overhaul this summer.
New boss Erik ten Hag will have a huge task on his hands, as the Dutchman looks to steady the ship following Xabi Alonso’s departure to Real Madrid.
The Bundesliga side have lost several key players, including Jeremie Frimpong and Jonathan Tah, with the likes of Florian Wirtz set to follow.
But who has been linked with a move to the BayArena to replace Leverkusen’s outgoing stars?
Bayer Leverkusen keen on James McAtee
James McAtee was left out of Pep Guardiola’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup.
The Bundesliga has been known for bringing up bright, young English talents in recent years, with the likes of Jude Bellingham, Jamie Gittens and Jadon Sancho all having spent time in Germany.
Bayer Leverkusen are now hoping to bring Manchester City youngster James McAtee to the German top-flight.
The 22-year-old has been heavily rumoured with a move away from the Etihad Stadium this summer following an impressive breakout season.
After two years on loan at Sheffield United, the England U21 international made 27 appearances in all competitions for City last term.
Fellow German sides Borussia Dortmund, Frankfurt and Stuttgart are also thought to be interested in McAtee, who could cost upwards of £20million.
Bayer Leverkusen look to Europe for reinforcements
It is clear that ten Hag is set to shake things up at the BayArena, with Leverkusen prioritising wingers over wing-backs.
Igor Paixao, Johan Bakayoko and Justin Kluivert are all on the Dutchman’s radar.
Brazilian forward Paixao, who currently plays for Dutch side Feyenoord, is valued at around £30million.
With an astonishing 37 goal contributions in all competitions last season, the 24-year-old could be an absolute steal for Bayer Leverkusen.
Also in the Eredivisie is PSV winger Bakayoko, who could be available for just £25million this summer.
Arguably the most high-profile of the trio, Dutchman Kluivert has been on fire in the Premier League for AFC Bournemouth.
Integral in the Cherries’ ninth-placed finish last campaign, the 26-year-old bagged 18 goal involvements in the English top-flight.
Reportedly valued at £30million, the Dutch international could be a bargain, although Andoni Iraola’s side are likely to demand a more substantial fee.
Bayer Leverkusen will not be short of cash with the sale of Wirtz, but the Germans would be wise to spend smartly, and it looks like they aim to do so.
Keep up with all the latest news, rumours and betting tips with Transfer News Blitz, and follow us across our social platforms on Facebook, X and BlueSky.
READ MORE: Bayern Munich news: Vincent Kompany eyes Takefusa Kubo to replace Galatasaray-bound Leroy Sane
