Leverkusen with transfer offensive: with Granit Xhaka back to “Vizekusen”?

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Between 1997 and 2002, Bayer Leverkusen finished second in the Bundesliga four times – three times behind Bayern and once behind Dortmund. In addition, North Rhine-Westphalia was in the final of the Champions League in 2002, losing 2-1 to Real Madrid. Stars like Michael Ballack (46), Ulf Kirsten (57) and Lúcio (45) formed that time. At that time Bayer traded the uncharming name “Vizekusen”.

But Leverkusen is currently working hard to become a “Vizekusen” again. One of the strongest forces in the Bundesliga and a potential fighter for series champions Bayern Munich. To step out of the shadow of Dortmund and RB Leipzig, who have been consistently fulfilling this role lately. And they want to be a regular base player in the Champions League again. Since 2017, Leverkusen has only made the top 4 twice (2019, 2022).

Already spent around 50 million

This goal is tackled with a transfer offensive. The midfield has been prominently reinforced with captain Granit Xhaka (30, Arsenal) and German international Jonas Hofmann (20, Gladbach). The Spaniard Alejandro Grimaldo (27, Benfica) and the Brazilian talent Arthur (20, America) must provide fresh blood on the flanks.

Pillenklub Leverkusen, which is supported with about 25 million francs annually by chemical giant Bayer, has already spent about 50 million francs this transfer summer. If at the same time they manage to keep hopeful players such as Florian Wirtz (21), Moussa Diaby (24), Piero Hincapié (21) or Jeremie Frimpong (22), Bayer will be taken very seriously next season. Also from Bavaria. All the more so because coach Xabi Alonso (41) is also heading for a great career.

Xhaka wants to “bring team”

“I’m trying to lure the team here at Bayer with my experience and hopefully be successful. With this team I’m convinced we can achieve that too,” Xhaka told the club’s Werkself TV. At Arsenal, the Nati star had at least the experience last season to demand everything from the Croesus (Manchester City) league.

Source : Blick