Jarell Quansah bid an emotional farewell to Liverpool on Wednesday following his departure to Bayer Leverkusen.
The defender, who joined Liverpool aged five, has signed for the 2024 German champions for an initial fee of £30million ($41M) plus a potential £5M ($7M) in add-ons. The fee makes him Leverkusen’s record signing, while Liverpool has inserted a buyback clause in the deal.
Having come through the youth ranks at Anfield, Quansah established himself as a member of the first-team squad under Jurgen Klopp, but struggled to push on after Arne Slot’s appointment. He started the first game of the Dutchman’s premiership, but wasn’t selected to start another Premier League match at center-back until after the title was clinched in April.
His exit always felt possible this summer, and the move to Leverkusen comes on the back of his excellent displays for England’s Under-21 side in its successful European Championship campaign.
Writing on Instagram, Quansah thanked those at the club who have helped him progress into a Champions League defender.
“From the moment I walked through the doors of the Academy at 5 years old, I dreamed of one day wearing the Liverpool shirt at Anfield. 17 years later, I can now say I have lived that dream,” Quansah posted, alongside a video of his highlight reel at Liverpool.
“To my teammates, thank you for welcoming me, pushing me, and believing in me. I’ve learned so much from sharing the pitch and dressing room with such amazing people and will never forget the incredible memories we’ve had.
Jarell Quansah
Quansah's move to Leverkusen was confirmed on Wednesday (Image: 2025 Bayer 04 Leverkusen)
“To the staff, the coaches, and everyone behind the scenes, your belief and dedication have always been a constant source of motivation. You have helped me grow not only as a footballer, but as a person as well.
“And to the fans, your support has always been unmatched. Whether at Anfield or away from home, hearing you sing never failed to inspire me. I will carry that with me wherever I go.
“Liverpool will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s not just a club - it’s a family! This is goodbye for now, but I’ll always be watching - once a Red, always a Red. Jarell.”
Jarell Quansah
Quansah starred for England's Under-21s this summer. (Image: 2025 DeFodi Images)
The words “goodbye for now” will not have gone unnoticed given the club’s buyback option, although with Leverkusen set to compete in the Champions League this term, there is a possibility Quansah could be back at Anfield in just a few months’ time.
His departure leaves Liverpool with just three senior center-backs heading into the 2025/26 season, with the Reds not set on making more additions in the market. The club only plans to deviate from its strategic approach if an applicable player becomes available on the market.
Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch’s ability to play center-back is believed to be a significant factor in that rationale, although the Reds are exploring the possibility of signing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace.