Besiktas links off as Bayer Leverkusen tie Super Eagles star to long-term deal

German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen have secured the future of Super Eagles attacker Nathan Tella, tying him to a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2031, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Tella has endured a challenging campaign at the BayArena. After two impressive seasons where he played a pivotal role in helping Die Werkself secure first and second-place finishes, this term has been a struggle for the Nigerian international.

​Hampered by recurring injuries, Tella has featured in just 16 matches across all competitions this season.

His lack of consistent game time sparked rumors that Turkish Süper Lig giants Besiktas were weighing up a summer move for the winger. Also, with his previous deal set to expire in 2028, he was entering the final two years of his commitment.

​However, those speculations have been put to rest. The Super Eagles star isn’t going anywhere soon, having signed a fresh three-year extension that will keep him at the club until 2031.

The club confirmed the news via their official channels on Tuesday. This new long-term deal is a significant vote of confidence in the former Southampton man, who will now be eager to repay the club’s faith with top-tier performances.

​Can Nathan Tella Lead Bayer Leverkusen to a Photo Finish in the Bundesliga?

​Nathan Tella has only just returned to action following an eight-week injury layoff. He is expected to be fully fit and ready to contribute as the Bundesliga enters its crucial home stretch.

​Die Werkself currently sit 6th in the table, trailing the UEFA Champions League qualification spots by four points. With seven matches remaining, they still have a realistic chance of leapfrogging the teams above them.

​However, their path to the top four is daunting. Leverkusen faces a difficult fixture run-in, with high-stakes matches against Wolfsburg, Borussia Dortmund, and direct top-four rivals RB Leipzig and Stuttgart.

​Tella could be a decisive asset for coach Kasper Hjulmand. His pace, trickery, and goal-scoring instincts provide a different dimension to the attack.

If Bayer Leverkusen can navigate this tough schedule and sneak into a UCL spot, it would mark a successful conclusion to a turbulent season.