A loan deal with no purchase option

The 19-year-old Argentine, considered one of South America’s brightest prospects, has been loaned by Manchester City to Bayer Leverkusen for the 2025-26 season. The deal, confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, was completed without a purchase option, with the German club covering his full salary.

The official presentation of the “Diablito” is expected in the coming hours, once he passes his medical tests and signs his contract. With this move, Echeverri lands in a Bundesliga that is becoming increasingly attractive for young talents aiming to establish themselves in Europe.

City’s failed plan

Although Pep Guardiola valued the midfielder’s potential, he didn’t see him as part of the first team this season. The City Group tried to place him at Girona, and even Roma showed interest, but both paths got complicated: the Italians demanded a future purchase clause, something the English club refused to accept.

In this context, Leverkusen’s offer ended up being the most convincing. For the German side, the defending Bundesliga champions, it’s a short-term bet that allows them to reinforce their squad with a highly promising player.

Will he play the U-20 World Cup?

The transfer also raises questions about his availability for the U-20 World Cup in Chile, scheduled between September 27 and October 19. Although Lionel Scaloni included him in Argentina’s preliminary squad for the upcoming FIFA Date, clubs are not obliged to release players for youth tournaments.

Initially, since he wasn’t in City’s plans, it seemed easy for him to take part in the tournament. However, it will now depend on Leverkusen and Erik ten Hag’s decision, which could determine one of the most important milestones in the young playmaker’s career.