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Bayer Leverkusen announced on Tuesday that Nigerian international Nathan Tella has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the BayArena until 2031. The deal represents a significant show of faith in the 25-year-old forward, who joined the club from Southampton in 2023.
Tella arrived in Germany with limited top-flight experience. However, he quickly adapted to the demands of Bundesliga football. Furthermore, his versatility across the front line proved invaluable to manager Xabi Alonso during the club’s historic 2023-24 campaign.
The Nigerian played a supporting role as Leverkusen secured their first-ever Bundesliga title. Additionally, he contributed to their DFB-Pokal triumph and their run to the Europa League final. His performances earned him a call-up to the Nigerian national team, for whom he has since become a regular.
Club sporting director Simon Rolfes expressed satisfaction with the agreement. “Nathan has developed tremendously since joining us,” Rolfes stated. “He has become an important part of our squad and fits perfectly into our philosophy. We are convinced that he will continue to make important contributions to our success in the coming years.”
Tella also shared his enthusiasm for the extended stay. “I feel very comfortable here in Leverkusen and at this club,” he said. “The trust that the club has placed in me makes me proud. I want to repay this trust on the pitch and achieve more great things together with this team.”
The extension comes amid growing interest in Leverkusen’s squad following their domestic double. Several key players attracted attention from larger European clubs during the summer transfer window. Nevertheless, the German champions have moved decisively to secure Tella’s services for the long term.
