Claudio Echeverri is set to join Bayer Leverkusen on a straight loan from Manchester City, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the move as a “here we go.” The 19-year-old Argentine talent, nicknamed El Diablito, will undergo his medical this evening before linking up with Erik ten Hag’s side in Germany.
The deal does not include a buy option, with Leverkusen covering the midfielder’s salary for the 2025/26 campaign. Manchester City still view Echeverri as a long-term asset, but his next step will be under the guidance of Ten Hag in the Bundesliga.
As we reported yesterday, Dortmund had been pushing for a deal (read here), but Leverkusen’s offer — and the presence of fellow Argentine Exequiel Palacios — convinced the youngster to make the switch.
Why Echeverri Picked Leverkusen Over Dortmund
Leverkusen have positioned themselves as one of Europe’s most attractive clubs for developing young talent, combining Champions League football with Ten Hag’s emphasis on technical play. The opportunity to play alongside Exequiel Palacios, a reference point for many young Argentines in Europe, is said to have played a key role in the decision.
For City, sending Echeverri to a top Bundesliga side ensures he gains competitive minutes in a strong league without losing control over his long-term future.
Player Quote Section
While Echeverri has not spoken publicly, Romano underlined the final green light late this afternoon:
“Claudio Echeverri to Bayer Leverkusen, here we go! Deal agreed with Man City for straight loan, no buy option. Salary covered by Leverkusen.” — Fabrizio Romano
Leverkusen fans can expect his arrival as soon as tonight, with the medical scheduled and paperwork already in motion.
Claudio Echeverri – Career Stats So Far
| Stat (Career) | Claudio Echeverri |
|---|---|
| Senior Appearances | 24 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 5 |
| Pass Accuracy | 82% |
source: footystats.org – 19 August 2025
Echeverri is still at the very start of his senior career, but his blend of dribbling, vision, and creativity has already seen him compared to River Plate legend Pablo Aimar.
Analyst Verdict
This is a huge coup for Bayer Leverkusen. Echeverri gives Ten Hag an extra creative option in midfield — someone who can play as a No.10 or drifting from the right, breaking lines with quick feet. For a squad already stacked with pace and energy, he could be the injection of unpredictability they lacked in last season’s Champions League run.
From City’s perspective, the decision to loan him out without a buy clause shows how highly Pep Guardiola’s staff rate him. It’s a developmental year, not a shop window. The Bundesliga has been a launchpad for South American stars before, and Echeverri could follow the same path.
Key Insights
- Claudio Echeverri joins Leverkusen on loan from Manchester City.
- No buy option — Leverkusen cover full salary.
- Medical set for tonight in Germany.
- Dortmund had pushed but lost out late.
- Exequiel Palacios key factor in Echeverri’s decision.
What’s Next
Leverkusen expect to finalise the transfer by tomorrow morning, with Echeverri joining training immediately afterwards. He could make his debut this weekend if registration is completed in time.
For Dortmund, it’s a bitter blow — they had been confident after initial talks. For City, it’s mission accomplished: a season of elite European football for one of their brightest prospects.
Did Echeverri make the right choice with Leverkusen — or would Dortmund have offered a better pathway?
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