Published on Jul 01, 2025
Bayer Leverkusen have agreed a $43 million deal (€40 million) to sign U.S. international Malik Tillman from PSV Eindhoven, marking one of the biggest American transfers in history. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder is now set for a return to the Bundesliga, where he once rose through the ranks at Bayern Munich.
The transfer, confirmed by multiple top-tier sources, is expected to be finalized in the coming days pending a medical. Tillman will join Leverkusen's Champions League squad as manager Erik ten Hag continues reshaping the German side following a historic domestic double.
The deal makes M. Tillman the second most expensive USMNT player of all time—just behind Christian Pulisic’s $73 million move to Chelsea in 2019. Tillman’s stock has skyrocketed following an outstanding 2024–25 season at PSV, where he scored 16 league goals and played a pivotal role in their Eredivisie title win.
In total, Tillman registered 25 goals and 19 assists in 74 appearances for PSV, establishing himself as one of the most effective attacking midfielders in Europe.
Though Tillman began his career at Bayern Munchen, the club opted not to exercise a buy-back clause believed to be around $38 million. Bayern reportedly had the option to match Leverkusen’s offer but decided not to pursue a reunion, instead allowing the deal to progress with their Bundesliga rivals.
This gives Leverkusen a clear path to secure one of the brightest American talents in Europe without domestic interference.
The move is also a major boost for the United States Men’s National Team, as Tillman continues to develop at a top European club with Champions League exposure. He has already shown flashes of brilliance on the international stage, including standout performances in the 2025 Gold Cup, where he scored three goals in the group stage.
As the U.S. prepares for the 2026 World Cup on home soil, Tillman’s continued rise in a competitive league could play a crucial role in shaping the national team’s midfield.
Medical exams in Germany are scheduled in the coming days.
An official club announcement is expected by the end of the week.
Tillman is set to join Leverkusen for pre-season training and will be integrated into Ten Hag’s squad as a key piece for their 2025–26 Champions League campaign.
Malik Tillman’s $43 million move to Bayer Leverkusen marks a new chapter for both the player and American soccer. The highly-rated midfielder returns to Germany not as a prospect, but as a proven European performer ready to take the next step in his career at one of the continent’s most exciting clubs.
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