“Alejo Sarco is a pledge to the future of Bayer 04 Leverkusen,”said sporting managing director Simon Rolfes at the announcement of the transfer. On the strengths of the young player, who will wear the number 18 shirt for the Werkself, the 42-year-old said: "He is a technically gifted player, fast, agile and assertive in challenges." In addition, his strength in finishing completes the profile of a modern centre-forward.
Sarco grew up in the interior of Argentina. At the age of 13 he left his home region and followed the call of the top-flight club Vélez Sarsfield who have one of the best youth academies in Argentina. The ambitious striker developed into professional player with the Intercontinental Cup winners of 1994 from the capital Buenos Aires. He made his first division debut in April of this year. Sarco then made his most striking performance to date two weeks later.
In the final of the Argentinian league cup against Estudiantes he came off the bench on the hour mark and scored the equaliser at 1-1 60 seconds later with his first touch of the ball. The final went to penalties and the youngster kept his cool from the spot as he converted his penalty. But that did not help avert defeat for Vélez Sarsfield.
At the German double winners, Sarco will meet up with his fellow countryman Exequiel Palacios who won the 2020 World Cup with Argentina. The 1.79 metre tall left footer talked about "joining a top club in Europe. That's something I've dreamt of. Bayer 04 have been interested for a long time and I followed the club's great season last term very closely indeed. It's exciting for me to be part of this team in the future and a great challenge to add to the strength of the team with my ability."
From his arrival at the airport, the medical and contract signing, right through to photo shoots, his very own trading card and his first interview at the BayArena: Werkself TV followed new signing Afonso Moreira up close on his first day in Leverkusen. In the interview, the 21-year-old Portuguese left-winger, who has joined the Werkself from Lyon, talks about his excitement ahead of joining Bayer 04 and the Bundesliga, as well as his conversation with head coach Carles Martínez. Moreira also reveals the secret behind his iconic goal celebration – which he intends to perform “as often as possible” at the BayArena next season...
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A new signing for the U19s: Bayer 04 have signed winger Clinton Wilson from Schalke 04. The 18-year-old previously played for Leverkusen youth teams from January to June 2024.
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After eight years, Ida Daedelow is set to leave Bayer 04 Leverkusen. The 18-year-old, whose original contract was due to run to 2027, is joining second-division side VfL Bochum.
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As with the other youth teams (U16 to U19), Bayer 04 are also relying on familiar faces—some in new roles—and fresh impetus from the coaching staff for the 2026/27 season in the younger age groups. An overview of the U11 to U15 teams.
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