Liverpool's homegrown centre-back Jarell Quansah has become the latest star from the Reds academy to depart this summer, joining Bayer Leverkusen for a fee which could reach £35m
Jarell Quansah has said an emotional farewell to Liverpool after completing his transfer to Bayer Leverkusen in a deal which could fetch the Reds up to £35million.
England under-21 centre-back Quansah put the finishing touches to his move to Germany on Wednesday, less than 72 hours after impressing at the heart of defence as the Three Lions retained the European Under-21 Championship title by beating the Germans in the final.
Reacting to the move on Instagram, Quansah said: "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.
"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.
"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."
Quansah made 58 appearances for the Reds in all competitions after coming through the club's Academy, and picked up Premier League and Carabao Cup winners' medals.
He emerged into the first-team in the 2023-24 season and went on to play a key role under Jurgen Klopp in the German's final campaign at the helm, but was then infamously taken off at half-time of Arne Slot's first Premier League match in charge against Ipswich Town last August.
Having been replaced by Ibrahima Konate at Portman Road, Quansah wouldn't start a Premier League match at centre-back again until after the league title was wrapped up.
Quansah's sale adds to those of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Caoimhin Kelleher this summer, moves which have banked the Reds around £63m from the sale of homegrown players, creating valuable PSR headroom for the club to pursue more summer arrivals.