Manchester City Midfielder Claudio Echeverri Expected to Join Bayer Leverkusen on Loan

Manchester City midfielder Claudio Echeverri is set to join Bayer Leverkusen on a one-year loan without an option to buy, with Leverkusen covering his salary. The 19-year-old Argentine, who joined City from River Plate in January 2024 and made limited appearances including a debut in the FA Cup final, struggled for game time and is expected to gain more regular playing opportunities in Germany. Borussia Dortmund also showed interest with a loan offer including a buy option, but City preferred Leverkusen's deal to retain future control over the player. Echeverri is seen as a technical and promising attacking midfielder, expected to replace Florian Wirtz at Leverkusen under new head coach Erik ten Hag. The loan move is pending medical and final paperwork completion. Leverkusen offers a supportive environment with a strong Spanish-speaking contingent to help Echeverri settle into the Bundesliga.