Bayer Leverkusen secure Nathan Tella signing from Southampton - report

Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen have reportedly finalised an agreement with Southampton to secure the services of winger Nathan Tella.

Tella, aged 24, who had been loaned to Burnley in August 2022, played a pivotal role in The Clarets' journey to Premier League promotion last season, netting an impressive 17 league goals. He has already notched up a goal and an assist in the current campaign for the Saints.

The pursuit of Tella by the Bundesliga outfit endured a series of rejections for previous bids made to the club.

According to The Athletic, a deal has now been reached, with Leverkusen supposedly shelling out £20 million to St Mary's, including a sell-on clause. Personal terms have been agreed upon for a five-year contract, with Tella scheduled for a medical examination in Germany this Saturday.

West Ham United, Burnley, and French side Rennes were also reportedly in the running for Tella's signature.

Tella's association with Saints dates back to 2017, following years of development in Arsenal's youth system. He extended his contract until 2025 in January 2022.