Bayern Munich have secured a major reinforcement for their defense, agreeing a deal to sign German international Jonathan Tah on a free transfer from Bayer Leverkusen. The 29-year-old centre-back, who spent a decade at Leverkusen, will join Bayern once his contract expires at the end of the current season.
Tah leaves Leverkusen after an impressive campaign, having played a pivotal role in the club’s historic unbeaten domestic season and their first-ever Bundesliga title win. His consistency at the back, leadership, and ability to read the game earned him widespread praise, with top European clubs including Barcelona and Real Madrid expressing interest in acquiring his services.
However, Bayern moved swiftly to wrap up the deal, capitalizing on Tah’s free agent status. Though Barcelona were keen—especially with new coach Hansi Flick having previously worked with Tah at the national level—the German champions offered a clearer and more immediate path forward.
While the defender is officially set to join Bayern in July, there is still a possibility that an agreement could be reached to bring him in sooner. This would allow Tah to participate in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup with his new side, although discussions on that front are ongoing.
His arrival comes at a time of change for both Bayern and Leverkusen. With Eric Dier set to depart for Monaco and Leverkusen’s key figures such as Xabi Alonso, Jeremie Frimpong, and possibly Florian Wirtz also preparing for new chapters, Tah’s move signals a shift in the Bundesliga landscape.
Having amassed over 400 appearances for Leverkusen and 35 caps for the German national team, Tah brings experience, composure, and top-level pedigree to Bayern’s backline. His signing reflects the club’s intent to rebuild a robust defense without incurring hefty transfer fees—a smart and strategic move in an increasingly competitive European market.
