Bayer Leverkusen has successfully concluded the acquisition of English winger Nathan Tella from Southampton. Tella, who played a pivotal role with 17 goals and five assists in Burnley’s triumphant promotion campaign last season, returned to Southampton during the summer. The 24-year-old recently inked a five-year contract with Leverkusen after showcasing his prowess with a goal and an assist in his initial three Championship outings of the current season.
Tella’s transfer to Leverkusen signifies an exciting new chapter for the player, marked by his enthusiasm for Bundesliga football. “Lots of young players from the Premier League have had the chance to play in the Bundesliga and were able to improve significantly here. And I find the stadiums and the whole fan culture exciting,” Tella shared upon joining the club. However, the standout factor in his decision was Leverkusen’s remarkable team, particularly their semi-final appearance in the previous Europa League season. Tella aims to contribute to the continued success of Bayer 04 on the European stage.
Having previously clinched the Championship title during his loan stint at Burnley in 2022/23, Tella also boasts a noteworthy track record with 33 appearances (17 starts) in the English Premier League during his three-year tenure with Southampton’s first team. He emerged from the Arsenal youth academy, further underscoring his footballing pedigree.
Sporting director Simon Rolfes lauded Tella’s arrival, highlighting his speed, scoring ability, and potential for development. Tella’s inclusion bolsters Leverkusen’s attacking options, enhancing the team’s dynamic on the field. Notably, Tella earned recognition by securing a spot in the English Championship’s official 2022/23 Team of the Season.
Following in the footsteps of compatriot Callum Hudson-Odoi, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Leverkusen from Chelsea last season, Tella is poised to make his Bundesliga debut for Leverkusen. The native of Stevenage could make his first Bundesliga appearance when Leverkusen takes on Darmstadt during Matchday 3, propelled by their consecutive league victories in the opening weeks of the season.
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By-Sahiba Suri