Bayer Leverkusen sign Bayern Munich teenager Emre Can

Talented 19 year old Germany under-21 international Emre Can has left FC Bayern Munich to join Bundesliga rivals Bayer 04 Leverkusen on a four year contract, which would keep him with the Werkself until June 30, 2017, though Bayern Munich have included a buy-back clause in the sale of the youngster.

“Emre Can is one of the biggest talents in German football,” said FC Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, “we’ve taken this step to ensure he gains sufficient match practice, as we’ve done in the past with the likes of Toni Kroos in Leverkusen, Philipp Lahm with VfB Stuttgart and David Alaba in Hoffenheim.”

No details of the deal have been disclosed by the two clubs, though it is known that Can will at least stay two seasons in Leverkusen with a buy back clause from 2015 onwards in place.

“Emre Can is one of the Germany’s best prospects in midfield. We are absolutely convinced he will be a top player herein the next few years,” Bayer 04 managing director Wolfgang Holzhäuser said while commenting on the deal agreed with the Frankfurt-born Can who was awarded the Fritz Walter medal for the best German youth player in 2011.

Meanwhile, Bayer 04 Director of Sports Rudi Völler said, “Emre Can is a versatile player with great potential and he’s bound to develop here with us.”

Emre Can joins a Bayer 04 side, which will play UEFA Champions League football this season and would likely once again finish third behind the two top sides Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.

Can meanwhile said, “Bayer 04 Leverkusen are one of the top teams in the Bundesliga and they are also in the Champions League. I want to play my part in making sure we’re successful in all competitions in the coming seasons.”