Bayer Leverkusen secure Francis Onyeka with long-term deal until 2032

Bayer 04 Leverkusen have secured the long-term commitment of highly rated midfielder Francis Onyeka, who has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the Bundesliga club until 2032.

As part of the agreement, the 19-year-old will continue his development with a loan move to newly promoted SV Elversberg for the upcoming season, with no option for a permanent transfer included in the deal.

Onyeka has attracted growing attention in German football following his performances during a productive spell at VfL Bochum in the 2. Bundesliga, where he earned regular playing time and contributed with goals from midfield.

His ability to operate as a dynamic box-to-box midfielder, as well as in more advanced attacking roles, has marked him out as one of the most promising young players in the country.

Interest in the youngster reportedly included approaches from clubs such as SC Freiburg, but Leverkusen were firm in their decision to retain him as part of their long-term plans.

The Bundesliga club’s sporting leadership views the loan to Elversberg as an important step in Onyeka’s progression. The move is designed to provide him with consistent first-team experience and further exposure to competitive football at a high level.

Leverkusen believe that this period of development will be crucial in preparing the midfielder for eventual integration into their senior squad, with internal projections suggesting a possible first-team role as early as 2027, depending on his progress.

Club officials consider Onyeka a central part of their future project and are closely monitoring his development as he continues to gain experience away from the BayArena.

For the player, the loan offers an opportunity to build on his rising reputation and confirm his potential as one of Germany’s emerging midfield talents.

With a long-term contract now secured and a clear development pathway in place, both player and club will be focused on ensuring the next stage of his career delivers steady progress and continued growth.