The transfer market always surprises, and Loic Badé has done it again. Both Barcelona and Real Madrid showed interest in the French defender from Sevilla. Many thought he would end up at one of LaLiga's giants, but he made a different decision.
His destination will be Bayer Leverkusen. The Champions League, the World Cup, and a salary increase weighed more than staying in Spain. Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen's coach, couldn't believe it: his new signing is arriving from Sevilla, leaving behind rumors and expectations from the Spanish giants.
Idol in Nervión
Badé arrived at Sevilla as a bet from Monchi, coming off six months without playing in the Premier League, and few trusted his adaptation. However, he soon won over the fans. In a difficult year, with defeats in LaLiga and the joy of lifting the Europa League with José Luis Mendilibar, Badé showed commitment and character.
Even in Budapest, in front of a mobile phone, he asked Monchi to sign him permanently. He rejected million-euro offers from other clubs because he wanted to help Sevilla. His loyalty and dedication made him one of the most beloved players in Nervión.
Europe called, Germany convinced
During his time at Sevilla, many European clubs showed interest. Stuttgart, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Bournemouth, and Sunderland tried to sign him. Roma even made him hesitate, but Badé decided to stay when the club asked him for continuity.
However, Bayer Leverkusen's offer was different. They presented him with an ambitious project: Champions League, proximity to the World Cup, and better financial terms. All of that convinced him to start a new chapter outside Spain.
Negotiations and future
Sevilla and Leverkusen are working to finalize the deal, the German club initially offered about €20 million (about $21.7 million USD) between fixed and add-ons. Sevilla hoped to exceed €30 million (about $32.6 million USD). They're looking for a middle ground, and everything indicates that Badé will leave for more than €25 million (about $27.2 million USD), including performance-based clauses, the countdown has already begun.
Now Sevilla will have to fill his spot in defense, while Badé prepares to shine in the Bundesliga. Neither Barça nor Madrid could convince him, Xabi Alonso welcomes a player who promises to be key for Bayer Leverkusen. His time at Sevilla ends, but he leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, commitment, and affection for the jersey that saw him grow in Spain.