Sevilla, Bayer Leverkusen Near Deal for Defender Loïc Badé

Sevilla goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos is set to join the club on loan from Newcastle, where he has struggled for playing time since his £20m transfer last summer. Meanwhile, Sunderland continues to pursue Sevilla defender Loïc Badé despite Bayer Leverkusen initiating talks to sign the 25-year-old center-back. Badé, valued around €25-35 million, has attracted interest due to his strong performances last season and recent international call-ups. Leverkusen, under new coach Erik ten Hag, is keen to sign Badé to strengthen their defense as they plan to deploy a three-center-back system, offering him a five-year contract. Sunderland remains a contender for Badé, but the German club's Champions League participation is appealing to the player, with transfer fee negotiations ongoing between Sevilla and Leverkusen. Sevilla, who bought Badé for €12 million in 2023, are holding out for a higher fee, reflecting his rising value.