Axel Tape is on the verge of finalising a move to Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, bringing an end to his stint with Paris Saint-Germain.
The 18-year-old Ivorian defender has reached an agreement with the German side and is expected to sign a five-year contract that will run until June 2030, according to journalist Florian Plettenberg.
Tape has already completed his medical with the club, and the official announcement of his transfer is expected imminently.
Despite receiving an offer to extend his stay in Paris, Tape opted to pursue a new challenge in Germany, indicating a clear preference for the vision and sporting project offered by Leverkusen.
His decision signals a pivotal moment in his young career, as he seeks to gain more first-team opportunities in one of Europe’s top leagues.
🚨⚫️🔴 EXCL | Axel #Tape to Bayer 04 Leverkusen is a done deal!
Medical completed, contract until 2030 signed. The 17 y/o talented centre-back will join Leverkusen as a free agent as his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires at the end of the season.
A big scoop for Bayer… pic.twitter.com/ryP081P13z
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) June 1, 2025
Originally trained as a midfielder, Tape transitioned into a defensive role and made his senior debut for PSG earlier this year.
That appearance came during a Coupe de France tie against amateur side Espaly, where the Ligue 1 giants secured a 4-2 victory.
Under manager Luis Enrique, Tape showcased his versatility and maturity beyond his years, earning praise for his composure and technical ability.
Though his departure comes without a transfer fee, PSG had been keen to retain the promising youngster, whose development within their youth academy had drawn considerable attention.
However, Tape’s decision to move abroad reflects a growing trend among emerging talents seeking more consistent playing time and long-term development pathways.
At Bayer Leverkusen, now led by new manager Erik ten Hag, Tape is expected to be integrated into a system known for nurturing youth and playing progressive football.
The move aligns with Leverkusen’s recent strategy of acquiring promising prospects and giving them the platform to excel in both domestic and European competitions.
For PSG, the loss of a homegrown talent without compensation will be seen as a missed opportunity, though it underscores the increasing challenge elite clubs face in holding on to emerging players amid intense competition across Europe.
Tape’s move to Leverkusen is more than a transfer—it marks the beginning of a crucial chapter in his career, as he sets his sights on establishing himself in the Bundesliga and proving his potential on a larger stage.
