Fernandez joins Leverkusen as Boniface departs
Ezequiel Fernandez became Bayer Leverkusen's 17th signing of the summer after joining from Al-Qadsiah, with Victor Boniface leaving on loan.
Bayer Leverkusen's busy summer transfer concluded with the signing of Ezequiel Fernandez from Al-Qadsiah as well as allowing Victor Boniface to leave on loan.
Fernandez arrives from the Saudi Pro League side on a five-year deal, and comes in as a replacement for Granit Xhaka, who joined Sunderland earlier in the transfer window.
The 23-year-old made 23 appearances for Al-Qadsiah in 2024-25 as they finished fourth in the standings.
Fernandez enjoyed an impressive season, winning more tackles (57) and playing more successful passes (1,633) than any of his team-mates in the top flight.
He became Leverkusen's 17th signing of the summer on the same day the club announced Erik ten Hag had been sacked after just two Bundesliga games in charge.
"Leverkusen currently have three of my compatriots in their squad. They told me about the club culture and the high standards here in Leverkusen," Fernandez said.
"I'm very confident that we will all achieve significant victories together."
Leverkusen also confirmed that striker Boniface would spend the 2025-26 season on loan at fellow Bundesliga side Werder Bremen.
Boniface made 27 appearances across all competitions for Leverkusen last campaign, scoring 11 times as well as providing one assist.
The 24-year-old had been linked with a move to Serie A giants AC Milan, but a move failed to materialise after he failed a medical due to recurring knee issues.
Piero Hincapie also sealed a move away from the club at the 11th hour, joining Premier League side Arsenal on a season-long loan with an option to buy.
The Gunners have agreed a fee of £45m (€52m) for the Ecuador international should they want to sign him permanently next summer.
