Bayer Leverkusen will make one final attempt to keep Jonathan Tah (28). Executives Fernando Carro (60) and Simon Rolfes (42) will once again express their desire to extend the contract of their defensive leader. However, they already know the answer.
Before Germany’s 5-0 win over Hungary, the national player told the “Süddeutsche Zeitung” that his stance hasn’t changed after his failed summer transfer to Bayern Munich: “My decision is just as clear as it was before. I will not extend my contract.”
Tah’s contract runs until 2025, and he can leave on a free transfer next summer. His firm stance brings clarity, signaling to other top clubs that they can make a move for him in 2025. This also gives Leverkusen time to start searching for a replacement.
However, a transfer to Bayern Munich is becoming increasingly unlikely. Despite reaching an agreement on a five-year deal, the record champions failed to finalize the deal with Leverkusen. Moreover, Bayern’s supervisory board expressed doubts about signing him.
The situation is different at FC Barcelona, under coach Hansi Flick (59). On August 30, Barça sporting director Deco (47) personally contacted Carro in a last-minute attempt to make the transfer happen. He inquired about Bayer’s internal transfer policies to secure the player for a minimal fee. However, the attempt failed.
Nevertheless, the desire to see Tah in a Barça jersey remains strong. Reports from Spain suggest that he is their number one transfer target for 2025, particularly because he would come on a free transfer. Additionally, Tah’s agent, Pini Zahavi (81), has excellent connections with Barça president Joan Laporta (62).
Although Tah distanced himself from his agency at the end of August, clarifying that the critical comments from his representatives towards Leverkusen were not coordinated with him, he backtracked a week later, stating that they were “in the same boat.” Whether this will remain the case is up to Tah, as he has the freedom to choose his representatives, just as he does with clubs.
For Tah, the key factor is finding the right club. His biggest wish is to play in the Premier League for a Champions League club. Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Chelsea are among the clubs reportedly interested.
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