Barcelona have reportedly secured the signing of Germany international Jonathan Tah on a free transfer, with the 29-year-old set to join the Catalan giants in the summer of 2025.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Bayer Leverkusen centre-back has agreed to reunite with his former coach Hansi Flick at the Camp Nou, rejecting interest from Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich. Despite having the chance to earn a higher salary in Bavaria, Tah has chosen Barcelona, a club he has supported since childhood.
Barcelona officials are believed to have met with Tah’s representatives during their Champions League trip to Borussia Dortmund in December, setting the groundwork for the move. Though FIFA regulations allow clubs to negotiate with free agents from January 1st, the Blaugrana took early steps to ensure the deal progressed smoothly.
Tah, who has played 33 matches and accumulated nearly 3,000 minutes this season, is seen as an ideal fit for Flick’s defensive setup. Despite being available on a free transfer, he is expected to sign a long-term five-year contract, though formal agreements are still pending.
Defensive Overhaul Looms at Barcelona
While Barcelona view Tah’s arrival as a major coup amid their ongoing financial struggles, his addition could lead to significant squad reshuffling. The German would become the club’s sixth centre-back option, not including Jules Koundé, who has frequently played as a right-back.
Ronald Araújo recently committed his future to Barcelona by signing a new contract, despite strong interest from Arsenal and Juventus. The latter reportedly offered £35 million, but Barça refused to sell and instead secured a new deal for the Uruguayan defender. However, the agreement is said to include a lower release clause than his previous contract.
Meanwhile, former Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen could be on his way out after making just one league appearance this season. Christensen was a key figure under Xavi, often deployed as a defensive midfielder, but injuries have hampered his role under Flick. The Danish international was close to leaving in January and could still be moved in the summer.
Another defender whose future remains uncertain is Eric García. The ex-Manchester City man was also linked with a winter exit but has regained Flick’s trust, featuring regularly in 2025, including in the 7-1 win over Valencia.
Tah, meanwhile, remains focused on his current campaign with Leverkusen, who are leading the Bundesliga title race. He is expected to start in their crucial clash against Bayern Munich on Saturday before turning his attention to his upcoming move to Barcelona.
