Chelsea in Better Position to Sign Bayer Leverkusen Star Jonathan Tah Amid Fierce Competition
With his contract expiring next summer, Bayer Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah attracts strong interest from Chelsea, Manchester United, and top European clubs.
Chelsea are reportedly ahead in the battle to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s experienced defender Jonathan Tah. The Blues have started active talks to secure the German international, whose contract with Leverkusen expires at the end of this season.
From January, Tah will be free to negotiate with clubs outside of Germany, and Chelsea is moving quickly to strengthen their position. However, they face tough competition from big clubs like Manchester United, Newcastle, Tottenham, Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Real Madrid.
At 28 years old, Tah has been a standout performer for Leverkusen for many years. His potential exit would be a major loss for the Bundesliga side, but they’re struggling to convince him to stay. While Tah is said to be happy at Leverkusen, he is also keen to explore new opportunities as he decides the next step in his career.
Why Chelsea Wants Tah
Chelsea has identified defense as an area that needs improvement. Players like Axel Disasi and Benoît Badiashile haven’t been consistently impressive, and adding a reliable and experienced player like Tah could help solidify their backline.
Tah offers the perfect mix of experience and quality, and Chelsea sees him as a smart signing, especially since he could join on a free transfer next summer. The Blues have had success with similar deals in the past, like when they signed Thiago Silva, who proved to be an excellent addition despite concerns about his age. Tah, at 28, is much younger and has several prime years left.
Manchester United is also keeping a close eye on Tah. With Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelöf nearing the end of their contracts, United’s new manager Ruben Amorim will likely look to bolster the team’s defense. Meanwhile, clubs like Newcastle and Tottenham are also in the running, making this a highly competitive transfer race.
Jonathan Tah’s decision could shape the future of Chelsea’s defense, as well as other clubs vying for his signature. Chelsea’s early efforts show their determination to land the Leverkusen star, but it remains to be seen if they can fend off competition from Europe’s biggest teams.