Leverkusen Weigh Move for Equi Fernández After La Real Talks Collapse

Bayer Leverkusen are considering a move for Al Qadsiah midfielder Equi Fernández after talks with Real Sociedad broke down. The Argentine is on Leverkusen’s shortlist for a new midfielder, with the club appreciating his profile, but no final decision has been made yet.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Leverkusen have explored midfield options this window and held discussions with Real Sociedad over a separate target, but that move collapsed in recent days. The German champions have now turned attention to 22-year-old Equi Fernández, who left Boca Juniors for Al Qadsiah in August 2024 for a fee reported near €18-20 million. Real Sociedad also made contact for Fernández in July as they sought a replacement for Martín Zubimendi who joined Premier League runner-ups Arsenal, but Al Qadsiah demanded an improved offer and the deal stalled, indicating their desire for more than what they paid for Equi Fernández.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Leverkusen enter the new season aiming to improve on last season’s Bundesliga campaign after finishing as runner-ups behind Bayern, having won the Bundesliga in 2023/2024. They have refreshed the squad with several additions, including goalkeeper Mark Flekken and defender Jarell Quansah, but are still assessing midfield depth before the Champions League group stage begins. Fernández built his reputation at Boca as a combative, progressive No. 6 who reads play well and passes forward with purpose. Interest in Europe grew after Al Qadsiah’s 2024 move, with clubs told negotiations would need to exceed the Saudis’ investment. Real Sociedad’s pursuit underlined his fit for high-tempo European football, but they could not reach terms.

FORM AND ROLE

Fernández profiles as a ball-winning midfielder who can speed up build-up with sharp progressive passes. While official 2025 statistics at Al Qadsiah are limited in public sources, his Boca spell highlighted strong tackling numbers and consistent forward distribution, which first drew Saudi and European interest. He would add energy and control alongside Leverkusen’s technical midfielders, offering cover in defensive transitions and an extra option against pressing sides.

WHAT NEXT?

Leverkusen have not decided whether to sign a new midfielder before the deadline, but Fernández remains firmly on their list. Any move will depend on Al Qadsiah’s price, which was previously set above their 2024 outlay, and on Leverkusen’s outgoings in midfield. If talks advance, medicals and registration would need to be completed before the Bundesliga season starts and ahead of Champions League squad submission in early September.