Arsenal have confirmed the capture of highly rated goalkeeper Bernd Leno from Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen this evening.
Details of the transfer fee and length of contract are yet to be confirmed, although the transfer fee is believed to be in the region of £22 million and the 26-year-old is expected to sign a long term contract at the Emirates.
German international Leno began his career with Stuttgart in 2009 before moving on to Leverkusen in 2011. Despite being only 26-years-old, he has amassed an impressive 289 Bundesliga appearances and is rated as one of the top young ‘keepers in European football.
Arsenal have looked in need of an upgrade between the sticks for some time now, with an ageing Petr Cech struggling badly at times last season.
Leno admitted he is delighted to move to the Emirates and also revealed that new Gunners boss Unai Emery played a key role in convincing him to move to London.
“For me it’s a dream to play for Arsenal.’’ He told the club’s official website.
“I was excited and proud, because Arsenal is such a big club all over the world. In Germany, Arsenal are so famous and when I heard it, I was a little bit nervous but at that moment it was clear for me: I wanted to sign for Arsenal.
“I’ll try to help the team to come back to the Champions League and to win some trophies. Arsenal belong in the Champions League.
“Now it’s a new chapter for the club. I spoke to Unai Emery and he said that he believes I’m a good goalkeeper, and that he wanted me to join.”
Welcome to Arsenal, @Bernd_Leno – we're delighted to have you here 🙌#HeyLeno pic.twitter.com/m4yT22I58V
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 19, 2018