Bayer Leverkusen prospect Axel Tape moves to Levante in search of playing time

Bayer Leverkusen have sent France U19 international of Ivorian descent Axel Tape to Spanish club UD Levante on a season-long loan as the young defender looks to secure regular first-team football.

The 19-year-old central defender will spend the upcoming campaign in Spain, where he is expected to play consistently and gain valuable experience at senior level.

The move comes after Tape endured a difficult first season in Germany, with injuries and competition for places limiting his opportunities at Leverkusen.

Tape seeks regular football in Spain

Tape joined Leverkusen from Paris Saint-Germain ahead of the 2025-26 season after progressing through the French club’s youth system.

However, his first campaign with the Bundesliga side was disrupted by injuries, while competition for places in defence made it difficult for him to establish himself.

The loan move to Levante is designed to give the teenager greater exposure to competitive first-team football and allow him to continue his development.

Leverkusen still have high hopes

Despite Tape’s struggles during his first season, Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes remains confident about the defender’s long-term potential.

“We have high hopes for Axel Tape, who didn’t have it easy in his first year due to injuries and strong competition for his position. With his pace, athleticism, and great versatility, we definitely see the potential for more in Axel.”

The loan spell in Spain will now give Tape an opportunity to demonstrate those qualities on a regular basis.

At just 19, the France youth international remains regarded as a player with significant potential, with Leverkusen hoping his season at Levante will help accelerate his development.