Liverpool have officially completed the £35 million transfer of defender Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen, with the 22-year-old set to embark on a new chapter in the Bundesliga. The deal, finalized on June 25, 2025, includes a buy-back clause, giving Liverpool the option to re-sign the academy graduate in the future. Quansah, who completed his medical in Germany earlier today, has signed a four-year contract with Leverkusen, marking a significant move for both player and club as Liverpool continue their squad overhaul under Arne Slot.
Quansah, a Liverpool native who joined the club’s academy at age five, made 34 Premier League appearances last season, impressing with his composure (92% pass accuracy), 78 clearances, and 45 interceptions. Despite forming a promising partnership with Virgil van Dijk, his path to regular minutes was blocked by the arrivals of Milos Kerkez (£40m from Bournemouth) and ongoing talks for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi. With Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez also competing for places, Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes sanctioned Quansah’s exit, securing a substantial profit for a homegrown talent.
Bayer Leverkusen, managed by former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, targeted Quansah as a long-term replacement for Jonathan Tah, whose contract is nearing its end. Alonso’s high-pressing, possession-based system suits Quansah’s ball-playing ability, evidenced by his 1,892 successful passes last season. The £35 million fee, which includes add-ons tied to appearances and Champions League qualification, reflects Leverkusen’s confidence in the 6’3” centre-back’s potential to anchor their defense alongside talents like Edmond Tapsoba.
The inclusion of a buy-back clause, reportedly active for three years, underscores Liverpool’s belief in Quansah’s long-term value while allowing them to cash in now. The move follows Leverkusen’s sale of Florian Wirtz to Liverpool for £116 million, creating a transfer pipeline between the clubs. Quansah’s departure has sparked debate among fans, with some on X lamenting the loss of a “future captain” and others praising Slot’s ruthless squad management. For Quansah, the transfer offers regular first-team football and a chance to shine in the Bundesliga and Champions League.
As Liverpool reinvest their funds, with targets like Newcastle’s Alexander Isak in sight, Quansah’s move signals their focus on immediate competitiveness. Meanwhile, Leverkusen gain a versatile defender poised to thrive under Alonso’s guidance, with Liverpool retaining a strategic stake in his future.
