Mark Flekken Signs for Bayer Leverkusen, Kelleher to Replace Him at Brentford

Bayer Leverkusen have signed Dutch goalkeeper Mark Flekken from Brentford for €10 million. Brentford will replace him with Caoimhin Kelleher as their new starting goalkeeper.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Mark Flekken signed a three-year contract with Bayer Leverkusen, which lasts until June 2028. The 31-year-old Netherlands international leaves Brentford after making 77 appearances over two seasons in the Premier League. Flekken, who previously played for Duisburg and Freiburg in Germany, moved to Leverkusen to be closer to home and for a chance to play in the Champions League. To replace him, Brentford signed Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.

WHY FLEKKEN JOINED LEVERKUSEN

Bayer Leverkusen secured their first Bundesliga title last season and are building a squad for another run, under new manager Erik ten Hag. Leverkusen’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes, praised Flekken’s strong reflexes, physical presence, and experience. He called him one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. Flekken is excited to contribute to a top German club, especially looking forward to competing in the Champions League.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BOTH CLUBS?

Leverkusen are preparing for another competitive Bundesliga campaign, aiming to defend their title and perform well in the Champions League. Their first match of the 2025/26 season is expected to be in August. They will start as favorites, having finished first last season. Brentford will look to settle quickly under new goalkeeper Kelleher after finishing mid-table last season. Their Premier League opener will set the tone, with fans eager to see how Kelleher adapts to his new role. Both clubs will be under pressure to perform given the recent changes and their ambitions for the new season.