Fiorentina target Ernest Poku as Bayer Leverkusen weigh transfer options

Fiorentina are in talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a possible deal for Ernest Poku after the Ghanaian-born winger gave his approval to a move to the Italian club, according to Footy-Africa.

The Serie A side are exploring an agreement that would see Poku sign a contract running until June 2031. Fiorentina are also prepared to offer him a salary higher than the one he currently earns in Germany.

Poku is understood to be attracted by Fiorentina’s project, with the prospect of securing more regular playing time a particularly important factor. Discussions between the two clubs are now focused on finding a transfer formula acceptable to both sides.

Two options are being considered. Fiorentina could pursue a permanent transfer, although Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly seeking a fee of between 20m and 25m euros for the player. That range is broadly in line with Poku’s estimated market value of 25m euros on Transfermarkt.

The Italian club are also assessing the possibility of taking the winger on loan with an option to buy. No final agreement has yet been reached between Fiorentina and Bayer Leverkusen.

Poku joined Bayer Leverkusen from AZ Alkmaar in August 2025 and remains under contract with the German club until 2030. The 22-year-old has made 29 appearances this season, accumulating 1,485 minutes on the pitch. He has contributed five goals and seven assists during that run.

Although Poku has regularly represented the Netherlands at youth level, he remains eligible to play for Ghana. His international future therefore remains open despite his involvement with the Dutch age-group sides.

The potential transfer comes as Bayer Leverkusen prepare to face SV Elversberg in their opening match of the German league season. The match is scheduled to take place shortly, with betting company 1xbet listing SV Elversberg at odds of 5.00 to win.

A draw is priced at 4.45, while Bayer Leverkusen are listed as the favourites at 1.50. The source article also promotes the option of downloading 1xbet in connection with the match.

For now, Poku’s agreement to a possible move represents an important step for Fiorentina, but the clubs must still settle the financial and structural details of the proposed transfer. A permanent deal and a loan with an option to buy remain the alternatives under discussion as negotiations continue.