Bayer Leverkusen won the Bundesliga unbeaten two years ago.
Edmond Tapsoba was at the heart of that historic defence.
He has since signed a contract extension until 2031.
And three of the Premier League’s biggest clubs are determined to prise him away from Germany before the window closes.
Manchester United lead race for Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba as Tottenham and Newcastle enter €50m battle
According to TEAMtalk, Tapsoba has emerged as a leading defensive target for three Premier League clubs this summer, with Manchester United understood to be the most advanced, having already made contact with the player’s representatives to discuss a potential transfer.
Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are also maintaining close dialogue as they assess the possibility of strengthening their defensive units.
All three clubs want the same player.
And Bayer Leverkusen have made their position clear.
It will cost €50 million to take Tapsoba away from the Allianz Arena.
Tottenham need cover following Cristian Romero’s injury absence.
However, the German club would prefer to keep him.
His contract extension until 2031 was a deliberate act of protection.
On the other hand, Newcastle have lost key defensive personnel this summer and are rebuilding under new management.
A signal from Leverkusen that they intended to build their future around the 27-year-old Burkina Faso international, not sell him to the first club to come knocking.
But they have not closed the door on a suitable financial offer.
Thus, Tapsoba’s credentials justify the interest.
270 appearances for Leverkusen across all competitions.
A central figure in the most dominant Bundesliga campaign in recent memory under Xabi Alonso.
For Manchester United, the appeal is compounded by the defensive situation created by Harry Maguire’s expected departure.
Therefore, United are first.
But this race is far from over.
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