Bayer Leverkusen signs goalkeeper Mark Flekken

Bayer Leverkusen has signed Dutch international goalkeeper Mark Flekken. He is set to become Bayer's new number one.

As the Rhinelanders announced on Tuesday, the 31-year-old has signed a contract until 2028. According to media reports, the transfer fee is said to be between 10 and 14 million euros.

"This means we are very well positioned in the team in the goalkeeper positions for the coming years," said Leverkusen's sporting director Simon Rolfes, praising the Dutchman's qualities in detail.

Flekken has "strong reflexes, good control of the penalty area, and enormous reach thanks to his height of 1.95 meters," Rolfes said: "Mark exudes impressive physical presence; from a footballing perspective, he has certainly been one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League over the past two years."

Flekken to solve goalkeeper problem

Flekken, who played eight international matches for the Netherlands, had a contract with Brentford FC in the English Premier League valid until summer 2027. "The many games against absolute world-class professionals in England have helped me progress even further," said Flekken.

Bayer had a shortage of goalkeepers. Captain Lukas Hradecky is already 35 years old and is expected to be replaced soon. The attempt to groom Matej Kovar as his successor apparently did not satisfy Bayer executives. Kovar is expected to be released if Flekken is signed.