Liverpool have finalized the £35 million transfer of defender Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen, which includes a buy-back clause. The 22-year-old now begins a new chapter in the Bundesliga following a completed medical in Germany earlier today. He has signed a four-year contract with Leverkusen. This move is part of Liverpool’s ongoing squad reshuffle under manager Arne Slot.
Quansah, a product of Liverpool’s academy since the age of five, made 34 Premier League appearances last season. He stood out for his composure, boasting a 92% pass accuracy, alongside 78 clearances and 45 interceptions. Despite forging a strong partnership with Virgil van Dijk, his chances for consistent playing time were diminished following the £40 million signing of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth and ongoing negotiations for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi. With Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez also vying for defensive spots, manager Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes approved the sale, securing a significant fee for the homegrown talent.
Bayer Leverkusen, coached by former Liverpool star Xabi Alonso, identified Quansah as the ideal successor to Jonathan Tah, whose contract is nearing expiration. Alonso’s tactical style—focused on high pressing and possession—aligns perfectly with Quansah’s ability to play from the back. The deal, which includes performance-based add-ons, demonstrates Leverkusen’s confidence in the 6’3” centre-back’s potential to become a key figure alongside Edmond Tapsoba in defense.
Liverpool’s inclusion of a buy-back clause, active for the next three years, highlights their belief in Quansah’s future development while allowing them to benefit financially now. This transfer comes shortly after Liverpool secured the £116 million signing of Florian Wirtz from Leverkusen, strengthening the growing transfer relationship between the two clubs. The sale has divided Liverpool fans on social media, with some mourning the departure of a potential future captain, while others commend Slot’s decisive approach to rebuilding the squad.
As Liverpool look to reinvest, with targets like Newcastle striker Alexander Isak reportedly on their radar, Quansah’s exit reflects their ambition to remain competitive immediately. Meanwhile, Leverkusen gain a promising and versatile defender suited to thrive under Alonso’s leadership, while Liverpool maintain a potential route to bring him back in the future
