Back
3.07.2017Bayer 04

Five-year deal for Kai Havertz

Bayer 04 have agreed a long-term deal with top talent Kai Havertz. The 18- year-old, winner of the U17 German championship with Leverkusen last season, has signed a five-year contract with the Werkself. His appearance on matchday ten in the 2016/17 season against Darmstadt 98 makes Havertz the youngest player to start a game in the history of Bayer 04.
© Bayer 04 Leverkusen Fussball GmbH

"With Kai Havertz we have once again brought a promising youth player through to our first team squad," said Bayer 04 CEO Michael Schade. "That fits in completely with our strategy of trying to pave a direct way for our talented youngsters from the Kurtekotten Academy into the BayArena. Kai Havertz and Benjamin Henrichs represent our successful concept of developing our home-grown players into outstanding Bundesliga players."

The versatile Havertz, awarded a silver Fritz Walter Medal by the DFB, was one of the outstanding newcomers in the Bundesliga last season. "Kai has special qualities and beyond that is also blessed with a maturity that raises him above other players of his age," said Bayer 04 sporting director Rudi Völler. "He has technical ability, is capable of scoring and is good in the air. After a great start in professional football we want to continue to support Kai's development. He has huge potential that will unfold in the next few years."

For the youth international, signing the contract is a long-cherished desire: "I've worked for this moment over the past few years. I feel great's satisfaction and pride. I'm happy to finally really being part of it all after last season when I still had to finish school. I've got my A-levels now and a professional contract at Bayer 04 - it feels great."

Related News

Paneltalk „Rudi lädt ein“
Fans - 12.10.2026

“Rudi invites”: Football, Bayer 04 and Leverkusen during the Nazi period – tickets on sale now

Bayer 04 record-appearance maker Rüdiger Vollborn invites you to another evening in the popular ‘Rudi lädt ein’ series: on Tuesday 10 November, in collaboration with Bayer AG, the focus will be on the Nazi period. The focus will be on football, Bayer 04 and the city of Leverkusen.

Show more
Extreme Networks
Business - 12.10.2026

New network partner: Extreme Networks enters a five-year partnership

Bayer 04 Leverkusen has secured a new network partner in Extreme Networks GmbH. The leading provider of AI-powered network automation has agreed a five-year partnership with the Bundesliga club, running until 30 June 2031. As part of this, the club’s existing Wi-Fi 5 infrastructure will be replaced by more than 400 Wi-Fi 7 access points, which are specifically designed to meet the requirements of a stadium with a high user density. The aim is to enhance the fan experience while optimising operational processes and security.

Show more
Miguel Gutierrez
Bayer 04 - 11.10.2026

8 predecessors and 1 interview that made an impression: Facts & Fun with Miguel Gutiérrez | Werkself Magazine #56

New signing Miguel Gutiérrez has made a good start at Leverkusen and has promptly earned a nomination for Player of the Month in his first few weeks in the Bundesliga. He has scored one goal and provided three assists in four league games. The Spanish left-back has also brought some impressive stats with him to Bayer 04. Issue #56 of the Werkself magazine has taken a look at these figures. ‘Facts & Fun’ with Miguel Gutiérrez.

Show more
Kurzpässe vor #M05B04
Bundesliga - 10.10.2026

Matchday news #M05B04: Werkself on the road in Mainz

With seven points, Mainz 05 are currently joint seventh, level on points with sixth-placed Bayer 04. In today’s head-to-head clash (kick-off: 15:30 CEST), the Werkself must be particularly wary of the clinical Mainz strike duo. For Leverkusen fans who have left it to the last minute, there are still a few tickets available from the matchday ticket office. Those following the Black and Reds from home, on the other hand, have a choice: RTL is broadcasting the match on free-to-air TV, and Werkself Radio is also offering the expert commentary of former Bayer 04 player Falko Götz. Today’s matchday news.

Show more
Die PK vor dem Auswärtsspiel beim 1. FSV Mainz 05 | 5. Bundesliga-Spieltag
Werkself-TV - 09.10.2026

Martínez ahead of Mainz clash: ‘Competitive games are what we really like’

Back from the international break: On Saturday 10 October (kick-off: 15:30 CEST), the Werkself are away to Mainz 05. Ahead of the clash at the MEWA ARENA against the side currently sixth in the table, head coach Carles Martínez spoke, amongst other things, about the team’s work during the extended international break. The Spaniard also commented, when asked, on a number of squad matters, including Ibrahim Maza.

Show more