Bournemouth Complete £25m Deal for Bayer Leverkusen Winger Amine Adli

Bournemouth have secured the signing of winger Amine Adli from Bayer Leverkusen for a fee that could reach £25.1m. The 25-year-old Moroccan international becomes the Cherries' seventh signing of a busy summer transfer window, bolstering their attacking options ahead of the Premier League season. Adli has signed a five-year contract with the south coast club.

Adli's Versatility a Key Asset for Iraola

Adli, who predominantly operates on the left wing, brings versatility to Andoni Iraola's squad, having also demonstrated his capabilities as a number 10 and on the right flank. His arrival is expected to provide competition and potentially fill a void on the left wing, where Bournemouth have been searching for a consistent performer.

During his time at Bayer Leverkusen, Adli made 143 appearances, contributing 10 goals and 12 assists. He was an integral part of Xabi Alonso's squad that achieved a historic Bundesliga and German Cup double in the 2023-24 season, although his role was often as an impactful substitute.

Cherries' Spending Spree Continues Under Foley's Ownership

This acquisition further highlights Bournemouth's ambitious approach under the ownership of American businessman Bill Foley, who took control of the club shortly before the January 2023 transfer window. The Cherries have now spent close to £350m on new players since Foley's arrival, signalling their intent to establish themselves as a Premier League mainstay.

While investing heavily in incoming talent, Bournemouth have also been active in the transfer market regarding outgoing players. Defenders Milos Kerkez, Dean Huijsen, and Illia Zabarnyi have departed for a combined £150m, joining Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Paris St-Germain respectively. This demonstrates a strategic approach to squad building, balancing investment with player sales.

Expert Analysis: Adli Fills a Need on the Left Wing

Constantin Eckner, a German football expert, speaking to BBC Radio Solent, believes Adli will seamlessly integrate into Iraola's tactical setup. "Adli usually plays as a left winger, but can also play as an attacking midfielder. In Andoni Iraola's 4-1-4-1 system right now he would probably be the man on the left wing."

Eckner added, "When we look at Bournemouth's starting XI for their first Premier League match against Liverpool, David Brooks played off the left wing but from what I know, he is more of a right winger. Then there is Luis Sinisterra, who is injured, so I think there is an opening for a left winger."

A Fair Deal for a Player With Untapped Potential

Eckner also offered his perspective on the transfer fee. "I think it's a fair deal in terms of price. At 25 he is still a young player, not quite at his peak in terms of athleticism. He still has a few years until he peaks but he played 140 games for Leverkusen and was part of the Bundesliga-winning squad so is not just a nobody from the bench."

Potential Loan Move for Disasi on the Horizon

Bournemouth are reportedly nearing the completion of their transfer business for this window, with a potential loan move for Chelsea defender Axel Disasi also being explored. Chelsea, however, are believed to prefer a permanent sale for the French international.

Premier League Context: Bournemouth Aim to Build on Solid Foundation

Bournemouth's activity in the transfer market reflects the increasing financial power and ambition within the Premier League. The club will be hoping that Adli and their other summer signings can help them build on the foundation they established last season, aiming for a comfortable mid-table finish and potentially challenging for a place in the top half of the table.

The signing of Adli represents a significant investment and a clear statement of intent from Bournemouth as they look to continue their progress under Andoni Iraola's management.