Senegal defender Abdoulaye Faye nearing Celta Vigo switch from Bayer Leverkusen

Celta Vigo are closing in on the signing of Senegalese defender Abdoulaye Faye from Bayer Leverkusen, with only the final contractual details left to be resolved before the deal is completed.

The Spanish club have accelerated negotiations for the centre-back after coach Claudio Giráldez identified him as a key target to strengthen his defence ahead of the new season.

Faye, who will celebrate his 22nd birthday in September, remains under contract with the German champions until 2030 but is now expected to continue his development in La Liga.

Giráldez prioritises defensive reinforcement

The move comes after Giráldez made the Senegal international one of his main transfer priorities during the summer window.

Standing at 1.91 metres, Faye is regarded as one of Bayer Leverkusen’s most promising young defenders, combining physical presence with strong defensive qualities.

Celta believe the Senegalese centre-back can add depth and stability to their back line as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.

Injury setback fails to halt progress

Faye spent the 2025-26 season on loan at French side Lorient, where he made 19 appearances in all competitions.

Although an injury kept him out of action for more than four months during the campaign, the defender established himself as a regular starter whenever he was available.

His performances in Ligue 1 further enhanced his reputation and attracted interest from clubs outside Germany.

La Liga challenge awaits

With negotiations now entering their final stages, the transfer is expected to be completed once the remaining details between the two clubs are settled.

For Faye, a move to Celta Vigo would represent another significant step in his career and provide the Senegal international with the opportunity to showcase his talent in one of Europe’s top leagues.

The defender would also become the latest African player to make the switch to Spain, as Celta continue their preparations for the start of the new season.