Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah has revealed he will be leaving the club at the end of the season, confirming long-running speculation about his future.
Speaking after Leverkusen’s 1-1 draw against St. Pauli on Sunday, the centre-back made it clear he has no intention of renewing his contract, which is set to expire in July.
“I don’t have a timeframe [on my departure], but the club knows about it,” Tah told Kicker. “I’ve always communicated openly, and this isn’t any different. I made the decision a while ago not to extend and not to stay here. That’s just the direction things are going now.”
While he stopped short of naming his next destination, the 28-year-old has been heavily linked with Barcelona.
Sources at ESPN suggest the Spanish giants are keeping close tabs on Tah, especially as they target a new centre-back this summer despite their ongoing financial concerns.
Tah has played a key role in Xabi Alonso’s side. He was a crucial part of the side that helped Leverkusen remain unbeaten in the Bundesliga last season and reach the latter stages of the Europa League.
His experience and leadership at the back have drawn interest across Europe, and his departure will be a significant loss for the German side.
