Bayern sign Tah from Leverkusen on free transfer

Bayern Munich has confirmed the signing of German international Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen, as announced by the Bavarians on Thursday.

The 29-year-old center-back has signed a contract with the Bundesliga champions until 2029, bringing an end to long-standing transfer speculation.

Jonathan Tah (front R) of Bayer 04 Leverkusen vies with Ihlas Bebou of TSG Hoffenheim during the first division of Bundesliga match in Leverkusen, Germany, March 30, 2024. (Photo by Joachim Bywaletz/Xinhua)

Tah will bring experience and leadership to Bayern, after having played a crucial role in Leverkusen's double-winning 2023-24 campaign, where he played 31 league matches, scored four goals and was a regular captain under Xabi Alonso. In total, Tah made 402 appearances for Leverkusen across all competitions after joining the club from Hamburger SV in 2015.

"This is a new chapter and a great opportunity," Tah said after completing his medical in Munich. "I'm here to take on responsibility, grow as a player and win trophies with this team. That's what drives me."

Bayern had previously expressed interest in Tah, and board member Max Eberl made no secret of the club's long-standing admiration. "Jonathan Tah has been on our radar for a long time. He's a leader and a consistent performer. He had several offers, so we're delighted he chose Bayern," said Eberl.

Bayern's CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen echoed this sentiment, praising Tah's profile: "As an experienced international and proven leader, Jonathan will add stability and class to our defense. He knows what it takes to win."

Sporting director Christoph Freund highlighted Tah's readiness to make an immediate impact. "He won't need much time to adapt. His composure, ball-playing ability and mentality make him a perfect fit for our back line."

Tah will wear the No. 4 shirt at the Allianz Arena. Although Bayern stated that the transfer was completed without a fee, discussions regarding a possible early release from Leverkusen before his contract officially expires on June 30 are ongoing, with a reported compensation fee of two million euros being discussed.