By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS

Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen have completed the signing of Nathan Tella from Sky Bet Championship side, Southampton.

Tella, who has been assigned jersey number 19 penned a five-year contract.

The versatile winger spent last season on loan at Burnley

The 24-year-old played a key role in the Clarets winning the Championship title and gaining promotion before his return to Southampton.

Sporting director Simon Rolfes sees the signing as filling another important position in the squad: “We have gained a fast winger who can score, who brings experience with him but also has the potential to develop,” said Rolfes. “Nathan gives our attack additional versatility and he will strengthen our team with his pace and quality on the pitch.”

Reflecting on the move, Tella said he is looking forward to making impact at his new club.

“Lots of young players from the Premier League have had the chance to play in the Bundesliga and were able to improve significantly here. And I find the stadiums and the whole fan culture exciting,” revealed the the Nigerian-born player , who played three league games for Southampton this season, scoring once and providing one assist. READ ALSO:

“Above all, the Leverkusen team is obviously the reason for my decision.

“They are an impressive team who reached the semi-finals in the Europa League last season. I really want to continue on that road with Bayer 04.”

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