Though relatively unknown on the senior stage, Tape arrives with a growing reputation in European youth circles. Standing out for his physicality, pace, and tactical intelligence, the tall and versatile defender played a key role in PSG U19's recent French championship triumph and made three senior appearances during the season — a rare feat for a player his age.
“Axel is a versatile defensive player, a good footballer with pace, athleticism, and well-developed game intelligence,” said Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes. “We see great potential in Axel, and signing him on a free transfer is an important building block in our future-oriented squad planning.”
Tape was reportedly courted by several clubs, including Eintracht Frankfurt and Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, but chose Leverkusen, where youth development and rapid first-team integration are seen as more achievable.
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| Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes, left, sits with French defender Axel Tape after the club signed the player on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, in Leverkusen, Germany, Wednesday, June 11, 2025. (D. Mesch/Bayer Leverkusen via AP) |
He becomes the second emerging talent to join the German champions this offseason, following 19-year-old attacking midfielder Ibrahim Maza’s arrival from Hertha Berlin. The club is clearly prioritizing youth and versatility as it reshapes the squad in the wake of significant personnel changes.
Leverkusen is entering a transitional phase following head coach Xabi Alonso’s departure to Real Madrid after a historic, unbeaten Bundesliga campaign. The team has also seen high-profile exits, including captain Jonathan Tah to Bayern Munich and wing-back Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool. Star midfielder Florian Wirtz is widely expected to follow Frimpong to Anfield in what could be a record-breaking transfer for the club.
In response, Leverkusen appointed former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag to lead the next chapter and has begun reinforcing key areas. Last week, the club signed Netherlands international goalkeeper Mark Flekken from Brentford and added 21-year-old Tim Oermann from relegated VfL Bochum, who was immediately loaned to Austrian champions Sturm Graz. In a related move, Leverkusen midfielder Francis Onyeka joined Bochum on a season-long loan.
The acquisition of Tape underlines Leverkusen's long-term vision: blending elite youth prospects with experienced professionals to maintain their competitive edge domestically and in Europe. As the club pivots toward a new era under Ten Hag, early signs suggest a firm commitment to nurturing future stars while remaining a contender at the top level.