Premier League interest leaves Ernest Poku facing early Bayer Leverkusen exit

Ernest Poku could leave Bayer Leverkusen after just one season, with several Premier League clubs now showing concrete interest in the Dutch winger.

According to a report in Bild, teams including Sunderland and Nottingham Forest have already informed Leverkusen of their desire to explore a transfer for the 22-year-old.

A move could happen quickly. The report suggests a departure before Leverkusen’s training camp begins on August 1 is entirely possible, provided an acceptable offer arrives. Bayer are said to be open to a sale in principle, as long as their valuation is met. Internally, the Bundesliga club are thought to be looking for around 25 million euros, more than double the 10 million they paid AZ Alkmaar to sign Poku last summer.

Poku initially made a promising impression in his debut campaign, but his role diminished as the season progressed. Towards the end of 2025/26 he was no longer a regular starter and often had to settle for appearances as a substitute, which may now make a high-value sale easier for all parties.

With Leverkusen’s squad evolving and new signings arriving, the club must decide whether to cash in on his potential or keep backing him to find consistency.