Barcelona Target Jonathan Tah Confirms Plan to Seal Summer Free Transfer

German Defender Set to Leave Bayer Leverkusen on a Free; Barcelona and Premier League Clubs on Alert

After nearly a decade of loyal service, countless battles in the Bundesliga, and finally lifting a league title, Jonathan Tah has made up his mind: his time at Bayer Leverkusen is drawing to a close. The 28-year-old centre-back, long considered one of the steadiest defenders in German football, has confirmed what many in the football world suspected—he’ll be leaving the club this summer on a free transfer.

And with clubs like Barcelona circling, along with a number of interested sides from the Premier League, the race is on to secure what could be one of the smartest deals of the upcoming transfer window.

“Definitely” Leaving: Tah Breaks His Silence

It wasn’t a dramatic announcement. No Instagram story, no cryptic tweet. Just a simple, firm statement to the press after a Leverkusen match:

“Definitely,” Tah said when asked whether he’d be leaving this summer.

“The club knows about it. And, as I have always done, I’ve communicated everything very openly. Everything was said from the beginning. There was a point when I made the decision not to extend my contract and not to stay here, and that’s how it’s going now.”

It’s classic Tah—honest, straightforward, and respectful of the club that gave him a platform to shine. And now, as the curtain closes on a monumental season at the BayArena, it seems he’s ready for a fresh chapter.

A Bundesliga Champion Says Goodbye

For Tah, leaving Leverkusen isn’t just about trying something new—it’s about timing. After years of near-misses and mid-table frustrations, Leverkusen, under the electric leadership of Xabi Alonso, finally clinched the Bundesliga title in the 2023/24 season. They did it in style, too, going unbeaten in the league and playing some of the most exhilarating football Germany has seen in years.

In many ways, it was the perfect swan song for Tah. A homegrown hero, a defensive rock, and a quiet leader, he was instrumental in making Alonso’s tactical revolution work. With his physical presence, calm on the ball, and impeccable reading of the game, Tah was a key piece of the puzzle in Leverkusen’s title-winning campaign.

And now, he’s ready to walk away—head held high, trophy in hand, and with no shortage of options for the next step.

Barcelona’s Long-Term Interest

Among those options, Barcelona stand out as perhaps the most high-profile suitor. The Catalan giants have been linked with Tah for over a year now, and that interest has only intensified with his contract situation becoming clearer.

A potential reunion with Hansi Flick, who is widely tipped to take over as Barça’s next head coach, adds further intrigue. Flick, who worked with Tah during his stint in charge of the German national team, is believed to be a fan of the centre-back’s composure and tactical discipline—two traits Barcelona’s backline has sorely lacked at times.

In January, many insiders believed a deal between Tah and Barcelona was all but certain. But then reality kicked in.

Barcelona’s Financial Tightrope

The issue, as has so often been the case in recent years, is money. Barcelona’s financial situation remains delicate. The club is still navigating La Liga’s strict salary cap, and with unresolved issues surrounding Dani Olmo’s registration still lingering, every incoming signing requires a careful shuffle of outgoings.

There’s also the matter of space in the squad. The club has a surplus of centre-backs—Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, Jules Koundé, Íñigo Martínez, and Ronald Araujo, not to mention young talents like Pau Cubarsí breaking through.

To bring in Tah, Barcelona will almost certainly need to sell. Christensen is believed to be available, and interest in Eric Garcia persists, especially from mid-table La Liga sides. Even Araujo, arguably one of Barça’s best defenders, has a price tag of around €65 million (£55.7m) and has suitors in the Premier League and beyond.

So, while Tah’s arrival might make tactical sense and come at no transfer cost, the financial logistics are anything but simple.

Premier League Clubs Waiting in the Wings

Barcelona aren’t the only ones watching. Several Premier League sides have been quietly monitoring Tah’s situation, and the fact that he’ll be available for free has only increased interest.

Clubs like West Ham, Tottenham, and even Manchester United have reportedly shown some level of intent. For English clubs looking to bolster their defensive line without breaking the bank, Tah is a rare opportunity: a Champions League-level player, a proven international, and available without a transfer fee.

The Premier League’s physical style of play could suit Tah’s attributes well. He’s strong in the air, unafraid of duels, and possesses the type of leadership qualities that can steady a shaky backline.

While a move to England might lack the glamour of Barcelona, it could offer more security—both financially and in terms of guaranteed minutes on the pitch.

A Veteran Still in His Prime

At 28, Tah isn’t a “young talent” anymore, but he’s far from past his peak. In fact, one could argue he’s entering his best years as a central defender. His positional awareness has improved markedly over the last two seasons, and his calm under pressure has helped Leverkusen transition into one of Europe’s most composed teams under pressure.

He’s also a known quantity on the international stage, with 20+ caps for Germany and experience in both the Euros and Champions League. That maturity, combined with his no-nonsense approach to defending, makes him a desirable asset for any team looking to stabilize at the back.

Farewell, But Not Forgotten

As Bayer Leverkusen prepare to say goodbye to one of their most consistent performers of the past decade, there’s a clear sense that this parting is on good terms. Tah has never been one to force moves or play politics—he’s handled his exit with professionalism, as he always has.

The only thing left to decide now is where he goes next.

Will it be Barcelona, reuniting with a familiar coach and stepping into the Camp Nou spotlight? Or will the lure of the Premier League—and the promise of a new challenge in England—prove too tempting to resist?

One thing’s for sure: wherever Jonathan Tah ends up, he won’t be short on offers—and he’ll arrive with the reputation of a champion, a leader, and a player who left Leverkusen at the very top.