Poku moves from Bayer Leverkusen to Besiktas on loan with option to buy

Ernest Poku, a dynamic winger, is set to depart Bayer Leverkusen for a loan spell at Turkish club Besiktas Istanbul, with an option for the move to become permanent. The Bundesliga club announced the transfer, though details regarding the conditions for the mandatory purchase option were not disclosed.

Poku joined Bayer Leverkusen last summer from AZ Alkmaar for an estimated 10 million euros. During his tenure with the German club, the 22-year-old made 29 appearances across all competitions, contributing five goals and five assists. His speed and attacking prowess were noted by Leverkusen's management.

"Ernest Poku has made a good name for himself in Germany and Europe as a fast attacker," said Simon Rolfes, Leverkusen's sporting director. "With his football profile, Ernest has everything it takes to establish himself in a high-quality squad at Besiktas."

The transfer is widely believed to be connected to Bayer Leverkusen's efforts to re-sign Moussa Diaby, a French winger who left the club in 2023. Rolfes has indicated that an agreement with Diaby is imminent, suggesting a strategic squad reshuffle at the BayArena.

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Ernest Poku has made a good name for himself in Germany and Europe as a fast attacker. With his football profile, Ernest has everything it takes to establish himself in a high-quality squad at Besiktas.