Bayer Leverkusen sign Nigerian forward Nathan Tella

Bayer Leverkusen have signed Super Eagles-eligible forward Nathan Tella from Southampton on a five-year deal after his impressive start to the 2023-24 season with the Saints.

Tella came through the ranks at St. Mary’s Stadium after joining from Arsenal aged 17, before spending the 2022-23 season on loan at Burnley in the Championship. The 24-year-old enjoyed a successful spell with the Clarets, scoring 19 goals as they won the Championship and gained promotion to the Premier League.

Bayer Leverkusen have handed the forward a contract until 2028 and have paid a reported £20m for his services this summer. He shone for Southampton at the start of the current season, recording one goal and one assist in three appearances for the Saints.

Tella will play alongside Nigerian striker Victor Boniface at the BayArena, and is eligible to play for the Super Eagles, having declared his interest in the past.