Bayer Leverkusen received some of the best news they could have got a few weeks ago: Xabi Alonso has decided to stay at BayArena in spite of being tempted by many European giants.
After a historic season for the aspirin side, everything leads to believe that this summer will be tough for Leverkusen, as some of the key pieces of the team are expected to depart in the upcoming transfer window. However, there are other incentives related to Alonso’s continuity that could have the opposite effect.
It is widely known that the Tolosarra manager is passionate about Florian Wirtz, but his stratospheric performance this season has not gone unnoticed by any of the top teams in European football. In fact, Fabrizio Romano stated this week that the German youngster is being scouted by some of the best teams in the world from leagues like the Premier League, LaLiga or the Bundesliga.
Nevertheless, the Italian journalist himself exposed that the continuity of Wirtz is critical for Xabi Alonso’s plans, something that the manager let the team’s front office know during their meeting.
Another unresolved situation is that of center-back Jonathan Tah. The German defender’s contract is set to run out next summer and the club is already working on a renewal offer, however, they have also warned him that, if he were to not re-sign, he would be sold this summer.
The roster of Bayer Leverkusen is filled with young players who possess tons of potential like Kossounou, Tapsoba or Hincapié, who are most likely transfer targets for many teams, mostly English.
However, the hardest player for them to keep will be Jeremie Frimpong. The Dutchman has played a key role in the aspirin side’s historic season as he has scored eight goals and dished out seven assists in the Bundesliga so far.
Both full-backs are critical pieces in Xabi Alonso’s team, so it is also possible that Alejandro Grimaldo could leave for one of the best teams in Europe after a fantastic season.
In spite of all the potential deapartures, Bayer Leverkusen’s board do not seem to be worried. They believe that, after winning the league title and finding out that Xabi Alonso will continue to coach the team, it is likely that many players will want to continue to play under the Tolosa-native manager.
In addition, the club’s reputation has improved due to the results of this season, which will allow the front office to be more ambitious when scanning the market for potential signings.
This summer is expected to be very busy at BayArena, but perhaps they will surprise everyone again by acquiring new talent and keeping most of their key players.
In addition, the star of the team, Xabi Alonso, has announced that he will stay.
Translated by Nuño Alonso.
Main image: @bayer04fussball.
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