Guéla Doué closes in on Bayer Leverkusen move in €35m deal

Bayer Leverkusen are closing in on a deal for Ivory Coast international Guéla Doué, with negotiations with Strasbourg taking place over a transfer that could be worth about €35 million.

Talks between the German club and Strasbourg are progressing, although the two sides still have details to resolve before an agreement can be formally concluded.

Leverkusen have made their interest in the 23-year-old defender clear and are prepared to invest in his signing as they look to strengthen their squad.

The proposed fee is understood to be around €35 million, although Strasbourg’s demands could ultimately rise to between €35 million and €40 million or even higher.

The French club are determined to protect the value of the player before agreeing to his departure, meaning further discussions will be required to settle both the final fee and the terms of the transfer.

Leverkusen’s pursuit of Doué comes as the club could generate significant funds from the potential departure of Exequiel Palacios. His sale could reportedly bring in around €30 million in total, providing the German side with additional resources for their recruitment plans.

Doué is understood to be attracted by the prospect of joining Leverkusen.

The sporting project presented by the Bundesliga club has reportedly made a strong impression on the Ivorian, with a move to Germany representing another significant stage in his career.

The defender began his development at Stade Rennais before moving to Strasbourg in the summer of 2024.

Since arriving in Alsace, Doué has quickly established himself as an important player, with his athletic ability, attacking contribution and versatility making him an effective option at full-back.

At 23, he remains a player with considerable room for further development.

His qualities also fit the profile Leverkusen are looking for as they aim to maintain a competitive squad while bringing in players who can develop and establish themselves as important members of the team.

The current negotiations suggest that the two clubs are moving towards a possible agreement, with a framework of around €35 million being discussed.

However, there is still work to be done before the transfer can be completed.

Strasbourg are continuing to negotiate with Leverkusen and remain focused on securing terms that reflect Doué’s value.

For Leverkusen, the priority is to reach an agreement that allows them to complete the signing of the Ivory Coast international.

Doué’s reported willingness to join the German club could also help the negotiations as both sides work towards resolving the outstanding details.

An agreement around €35 million appears possible, but Strasbourg have yet to give their final approval.

Talks are therefore continuing, with the transfer moving closer but not yet officially concluded.