The 33-year-old striker ends his 16-year career after a difficult final season with 1860 Munich, citing lost enjoyment, but will continue playing with his hometown club alongside his brother.
Bayer Leverkusen will travel to England this August for two high-profile pre-season friendlies against Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United as they finalise preparations for the 2026/27 campaign.
AC Milan advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic has publicly praised Kerim Alajbegovic, calling the 18-year-old’s World Cup courage “rare.” The Bosnia and Herzegovina winger is keen on Serie A football, with Bayer Leverkusen ready to sell following his RB Salzburg loan.
Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick has announced his retirement from international football following Czechia’s 3-0 defeat to Mexico, which ended their 2026 World Cup hopes.
Bayer Leverkusen have secured the signature of 16-year-old midfielder Kennet Eichhorn from Hertha BSC, fending off interest from Liverpool and Bayern Munich thanks to a longstanding family connection.
Spanish wing-back Alejandro Grimaldo has been voted Bayer Leverkusen’s Player of the Season after an outstanding campaign that saw him lead the team in assists and score 14 goals across all competitions.
Napoli are in advanced talks to sign 18-year-old Italian defender Andrea Natali from Bayer Leverkusen. The teenager is currently on loan in the Netherlands and is considered one of Italy’s brightest defensive prospects.
Bayer Leverkusen and Eintracht Frankfurt are leading the chase for Racing Santander defender Jorge Salinas. The 19-year-old Spanish talent has attracted interest from top European clubs.
Borussia Dortmund have reportedly tabled a €20 million bid for Mainz defender Kacper Potulski, but the Bundesliga club have rejected the offer as they demand a higher fee for the Poland international.
Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Exequiel Palacios has secured his place in Argentina’s squad for this summer’s tournament as the defending champions target back-to-back titles.