Bayer Leverkusen have completed the permanent transfer of 18-year-old winger Clinton Wilson from FC Schalke 04, the Bundesliga club announced on Thursday. Wilson returns to Leverkusen just two years after departing to join Schalke’s youth setup, and will initially feature for Die Werkself’s U19 team. Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed.
Wilson moved to Germany from Ghana in early 2023, quickly establishing himself as a key player for Schalke’s U19 side. Last season, the young winger registered six goals and two assists in 24 appearances in the U19 DFB Youth League, demonstrating his attacking potential. His performances reportedly attracted the attention of several clubs, but Leverkusen moved quickly to secure his return.
Bayer Leverkusen’s director of football, Kim Falkenberg, praised Wilson’s attributes upon the announcement. “Clinton Wilson is a player who is very difficult to stop: he’s quick, agile and good at finding solutions in one-on-one situations,” Falkenberg said. He added that Wilson “will breathe new life into our U19 attack.”
This move represents a chance for Wilson to continue his development within a successful club structure. Leverkusen have a strong track record of nurturing young talent, and recently won their first ever Bundesliga title. The transfer also allows Schalke to recoup some funds from a player who had shown promise, though the fee is not reported to be substantial. Wilson’s return to Leverkusen provides further depth to their youth ranks and offers a long-term prospect for the first team.
