Bayer Leverkusen officially announced the signing of Hoffenheim's rising star Luca Erlein to a four-year contract.

Bayer Leverkusen announced on Saturday that Luca Hernandez has joined the club from Hoffenheim. The two sides have signed a four-year contract, valid until June 30, 2030.

According to Sky Sports Germany, Erlein's transfer fee is approximately €2 million. Furthermore, Hoffenheim retains a 15% cut of the player's transfer fee on any subsequent transfer.

Regarding the signing, Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes said: "Luca Erlein is a gifted, intelligent, and physically strong defender. We are very pleased to complete this transfer."

The 19-year-old Erlein is a 1.90-meter tall center-back who can also play as a right-back when necessary. He has been developed in Hoffenheim's youth academy since 2018 and will make his professional debut for the first team on January 30, 2025, in a Europa League group stage match against Anderlecht.

Erlein also made 12 appearances for Germany's U19 team, leading them to the final of the U19 European Championship. Although Germany ultimately lost to Spain and finished as runners-up, Erlein's outstanding performance during the tournament made him one of the most watched rising stars in the league.

However, Erlein is unlikely to get playing time at Bayer Leverkusen in the short term. Reports suggest Leverkusen plans to loan Erlein to a Bundesliga 2 club for development, but his potential destination is currently undetermined.

Image source: Internet/Bayer Leverkusen official website