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12.08.2025Bayer 04

Bayer 04 sign Netherlands U21 international Poku from Alkmaar

Bayer 04 Leverkusen have signed the Netherlands U21 international Ernest Poku. The winger has joined the Werkself from the top-flight Dutch side AZ Alkmaar on a contract to 30 June 2030.
Simon Rolfes und Ernest Poku

“Ernest Poku is a brilliant winger who can give us something special up front with his pace and dribbling ability,” said managing director sport Simon Rolfes in describing the qualities of the 21-year-old born in Hamburg. “He is tricky and assertive and with his tempo and his dynamism Ernest enormously extends our possibilities on the pitch.”

The 1.76 metre tall winger has made 14 international appearances for the Netherlands U21 team and he played 48 games for Alkmaar in the Eredivisie plus ten in UEFA Europa League. “Now I can hardly wait to join Leverkusen in the Bundesliga,” said the two-footed Poku. “It’s a big club, a Champions League club! I’m happy Bayer 04 have given me this chance.”

 

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