Edmond Tapsoba Transfer Talk Resurfaces Amid Champions League Play

LEVERKUSEN (Azat TV) – Transfer speculation surrounding Bayer Leverkusen’s highly-rated defender Edmond Tapsoba has intensified, fueled by recent comments from his former coach, Hubert Velud, and strong interest from top European clubs, most notably Liverpool. The renewed buzz comes as Tapsoba continues to feature prominently for Bayer Leverkusen, including a crucial UEFA Champions League knockout stage match against Olympiacos this Tuesday, February 24, 2026, where he started in the central defensive line.

Hubert Velud, who coached Tapsoba with the Burkina Faso national team, publicly stated on Africa Foot that he believes “it’s time for Edmond Tapsoba to move on.” Velud emphasized that the 27-year-old Burkinabé international possesses all the attributes necessary to excel at one of Europe’s elite clubs. He noted that Tapsoba has spent six years at Bayer Leverkusen, establishing himself as one of the best defenders in Germany, and suggested that the decision on his next club should hinge on playing style rather than just the league, favoring teams that dominate possession, such as Paris Saint-Germain.

Liverpool’s Pursuit of Tapsoba Heats Up

Among the numerous clubs reportedly eyeing Tapsoba, Liverpool’s interest appears particularly strong. Sources close to the Merseyside club suggest that Liverpool views Tapsoba as “tailor-made for Premier League football,” according to Rousing the Kop. This interest aligns with Liverpool’s recent transfer activity with Bayer Leverkusen, having already secured Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong in the past year. Speculation even includes the possibility of Liverpool appointing Xabi Alonso, who led the trio to Bundesliga success, as their next manager.

Liverpool’s search for a new centre-back has been ongoing, especially with Ibrahima Konate yet to sign a new contract and Joe Gomez potentially departing before the 2026/27 season. German outlet Fussballdaten reports that Bayer Leverkusen would be open to a sale for an asking price between €50 million and €60 million, roughly £52 million. However, Liverpool is not alone in their pursuit, with Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Real Madrid also mentioned as interested parties, signaling a competitive market for the defender’s services.

Edmond Tapsoba’s Current Form at Bayer Leverkusen

Despite the swirling transfer rumors, Edmond Tapsoba remains a linchpin in Bayer Leverkusen’s defense. He started for the German side in their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg clash against Olympiacos at the BayArena. Leverkusen entered the match with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg in Piraeus, aiming to secure their progression to the quarter-finals. Under coach Kasper Hjulmand, Leverkusen has demonstrated defensive solidity and offensive efficiency at home, qualities Tapsoba significantly contributes to.

Tapsoba, who joined Leverkusen from Portuguese side Vitória Guimarães in 2020, has made 255 appearances across all competitions for the club. This season, he has contributed four goals and two assists, showcasing his threat from set-pieces—an attribute that could be particularly appealing to clubs like Liverpool, known for their set-piece success. His contract with Leverkusen runs until the summer of 2028, following an extension signed in 2023, giving his current club a strong negotiating position.

The Transfer Landscape for Elite Defenders

The convergence of Velud’s public endorsement, Liverpool’s specific interest, and a clear price tag suggests that the upcoming summer transfer window could be pivotal for Edmond Tapsoba. His consistent high-level performance in both domestic and European competitions, coupled with his age and experience, positions him as a prime target for clubs seeking to strengthen their defensive lines with a proven talent.