Bayer Leverkusen have secured the services of Germany Under-19 international Luca Erlein from Bundesliga rivals TSG Hoffenheim. The right-back has committed his future to the BayArena with a contract running until 2030, with the transfer fee reported at €2 million.
Managing director of sport Simon Rolfes confirmed the deal on Saturday morning. “Luca (Erlein) is a highly talented, intelligent and robust defender. We’re delighted to have completed this transfer,” Rolfes said, praising the 19-year-old’s physical and technical attributes.
From Hoffenheim Academy to Leverkusen
The 1.90-metre defender developed through Hoffenheim’s youth ranks before establishing himself in their second team during the previous campaign. He featured regularly in the 3. Liga, gaining valuable senior competitive minutes.
Erlein’s solitary first-team appearance came during Hoffenheim’s 2024/25 Europa League campaign, offering him a taste of continental competition. Leverkusen have acted swiftly to bring the teenager into their setup before he established himself as a regular Bundesliga starter.
Right-Back Depth and Immediate Future
Erlein enters a position group featuring established experience. Head coach Carles Martínez currently relies on veteran Lucas Vázquez and Brazilian Arthur as his right-back options.
With significant competition for the starting role, a temporary loan move remains a possibility for Erlein. The club have indicated that the 19-year-old may follow a similar path to Francis Onyeka, who will spend the upcoming season at Elversberg after a productive loan at VfL Bochum.
Young German Core
The signing strengthens Leverkusen’s contingent of Germany Under-19 international players. Montrell Culbreath, who played regularly for the first team in the second half of last season, is already part of the senior setup alongside the newly arrived Erlein.
The deal reflects Leverkusen’s recruitment strategy of identifying young domestic talent with international experience, securing the defender’s registration as they prepare for the 2025/26 campaign.