Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Francis Onyeka has signed a contract extension with the club until 2032, but will spend the 2024-25 season on loan at Bundesliga newcomers SV 07 Elversberg. The deal was confirmed by Leverkusen on Thursday, securing the future of the promising 19-year-old while providing him with further first-team experience.
Sporting director Simon Rolfes expressed the club’s satisfaction with the extension, stating that Onyeka is a “fantastic talent” who has progressed through Leverkusen’s youth system for many years. The player, originally from Gummersbach, has been with the Rhineland club since the age of seven, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the organization.
Onyeka gained valuable professional experience during the 2023-24 season with Bochum, where he featured prominently in the 2. Bundesliga. He made 30 appearances for the club, contributing eight goals, showcasing his attacking capabilities from midfield. This loan spell proved crucial in his development, providing a platform to transition to senior football.
Elversberg earned promotion to the Bundesliga at the end of the 2023-24 season, presenting Onyeka with the opportunity to compete at a higher level. The loan move allows Leverkusen to continue monitoring his progress closely while ensuring he receives regular playing time. This arrangement is expected to benefit both clubs, as Elversberg gains a talented midfielder and Leverkusen nurtures a potential future star. The extended contract suggests Leverkusen views Onyeka as a key part of their long-term plans, and this loan is designed to accelerate his development towards a role in the first team from 2025 onwards.
