Bayer Leverkusen head into the new season in confident shape, having closed out their pre-season programme with a 2-1 win over Newcastle United on August 15. That result capped an unbeaten summer for Carles Martínez Novell's side, who scored freely throughout their preparation fixtures and arrive at the competitive season with real momentum.

The most pressing storyline off the pitch is the interest in Jarell Quansah. Arsenal have opened talks with Leverkusen over the 23-year-old centre-back, according to reports from Sky Sports and the Guardian, with the Gunners looking to cover injuries to William Saliba and Jurrien Timber. Leverkusen have made clear they do not want to sell, and the club is said to hold firm unless a bid reaches at least 50 million euros. Quansah, who joined from Liverpool for 35 million euros last summer and made 44 appearances in all competitions, has become a key figure in defence. Losing him this late in the window would be a significant blow.

In midfield, Robert Andrich has publicly stated his intention to stay and push for a recall under new Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp. A separate squad concern involves Kennet Eichhorn, who is sidelined with a metabolic condition, a setback that has tightened Leverkusen's midfield options and reduced the likelihood of further departures from that area of the squad.

There is also a potential attacking addition on the horizon. Moussa Diaby, who spent four years at the club before leaving in 2023, has been linked with a return, though Inter Milan are competing for his signature. Leverkusen's first competitive test comes on August 22, away to Wehen Wiesbaden in the DFB-Pokal.