Barcelona have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah, setting up a transfer battle with rivals Real Madrid ahead of next summer.
Softfootball understands that the Germany international will become a free agent when his contract with Bayer Leverkusen expires at the end of the season, making him one of the most sought-after defenders on the market.
According to reports, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has identified Tah as a priority target and has urged the club’s hierarchy to secure the experienced centre-back’s signature.
The 28-year-old is believed to be considering three possible destinations, with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich all monitoring his situation.
Bayern Munich attempted to sign Tah during the summer transfer window and remain interested, but Flick’s presence at Barcelona could give the Catalan club an advantage in the race for his signature.
Real Madrid have also been tracking the defender as they seek to strengthen their injury-hit backline. Although Los Blancos have considered making a move in January, the club are reportedly reluctant to spend more than €10 million on a player who can be signed for free just six months later.
Tah has been an ever-present figure for Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen side this season, playing every match as the Bundesliga champions look to defend both their league title and the DFB-Pokal crown.
With several European giants circling, the German defender is expected to be one of the biggest free-transfer opportunities of the 2025 summer transfer window.
