kicker reports that Bayer Leverkusen are looking to complete the permanent signing of on-loan PSG defender Nordi Mukiele.
The defender joined Leverkusen in the summer on a straight loan as what was meant to be a backup option, but after an initial settling-in period, Mukiele is performing at a good level. The reason for no clause in the deal was that Mukeiele turned 28 at the back end of last year and the transfer fee and salary did not fit into Leverkusen’s model.
Leverkusen wants to get the deal done quickly as if Mukiele continues to perform at a high level, espeically in the Champions League, parent club PSG could drive up the price tag out of Leverkusen’s reach.
Mukiele joined PSG in 2022 from RB Leipzig for €12m but was never able to establish himself in the French capital. Since returning to Germany, the 28-year-old has played 17 games for Leverkusen and scored the only goal that Inter Milan conceded in the Champions League in Die Werkself’s 1-0 win earlier this season.
With Jonathan Tah set to leave the club in the summer, Leverkusen needs a replacement and Mukiele will help limit the impact of the German international’s departure.
GGFN | Jack Meenan
