Bayer Leverkusen have completed the signing of Cameroonian forward Christian Kofane after his impressive spell with Albacete in Spain's second division.
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Christian Kofane joins Bundesliga side on a four-year deal18-year-old labelled a "powerful and fast" strikerOne of the most exciting prospects in La Liga 2Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Bayer announced the arrival of Kofane on their official website, luring the player under the nose of many interested clubs. It has been less than a year since the forward joined Albacete, and he was starting for the Spanish side's first-team in a matter of mere months. The Bundesliga side are excited about their new signing and cannot wait for him to develop under the management of Erik ten Hag.
AdvertisementImago ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Kofane arrived in Albacete from Nylon and joined their youth side, Albacete Balompie. After netting six goals in six games, the forward was quickly called up to join the first team where he scored another eight and provided one assist in 20 games for the club. Looking at his exceptional rise, the 2023-24 Bundesliga champions clinched the chance to sign the forward, reportedly paying Albacete more than his €5m release clause.
WHAT THE CLUB SAID
Speaking to the club's official media, Bayer sporting director Simon Rolfes said: "Christian Kofane is an extremely powerful and fast striker, technically gifted, and very assertive. He will add even more variety to our game with his strengths and has the potential to become an important part of our team in the coming years."
Kofane, who is still experiencing jet lag after his quick progression from Nylon to landing at BayArena, said: "It's incredible for me that after such a short time in Europe, I'm now playing for a Champions League club. I will give everything I can to take advantage of this opportunity in the Bundesliga. Bayer 04's history is rife with examples of young players who have achieved great things here."
ImagoWHAT NEXT FOR LEVERKUSEN?
It's been a very busy summer transfer window for Leverkusen, who are still revamping their squad. Reportedly, the club are still pursuing more signings, with Malik Tillman and Johan Bakayoko of PSV still on the club's list of targets. The former is about to go through medical checks in the coming days.