Exequiel Palacios Joins Ipswich Town from Bayer Leverkusen on Four-Year Contract

Argentina World Cup winner Exequiel Palacios has completed a remarkable transfer to Ipswich Town from Bayer Leverkusen, signing a four-year deal. The 27-year-old midfielder brings valuable experience and silverware to the newly promoted Premier League club, having been a key figure in Leverkusen's recent successful Bundesliga campaigns.

Major Signing for the Tractor Boys

The Premier League newcomers have officially secured the Argentina international, who will wear the number 25 jersey at Portman Road. Palacios arrives for an undisclosed fee, marking Ipswich's 11th signing this summer and becoming the first World Cup winner in the club’s history. During his six seasons at Leverkusen, he made 186 appearances and scored 15 goals across all competitions.

Leverkusen’s Parting Words

Simon Rolfes, managing director of sport at Bayer Leverkusen, shared insight into the transfer: "We are fulfilling Exequiel Palacios' desire to challenge himself in the Premier League after his impressive time in the Bundesliga. He has shown outstanding football quality and earned great respect through his character within the team and club. We wish him all the best in England."

Palacios reflected on his time in Germany, saying, "I grew up as a footballer at Leverkusen. The club trusted me and helped shape who I am on the pitch today. I will always feel connected to my teammates, staff, and fans. I’ll be supporting Leverkusen from afar. Thank you to a fantastic club."

Excited to Begin in England

Speaking on joining Ipswich, Palacios told the club's official website, "I'm very happy to sign for Ipswich Town. This club has strong ambitions, and I'm excited to play football in England, competing against some of the world's best teams and players. I've enjoyed conversations with everyone here and look forward to meeting my new teammates and the fans soon."

Experienced Midfielder Boosts Ipswich Squad

Manager Gary O'Neil welcomed Palacios' arrival, emphasizing the midfielder's winning mentality. "We're thrilled to add a player of Exequiel’s caliber. He has succeeded at the highest levels, winning the World Cup and significant trophies at club level. His experience will be crucial as we aim to strengthen the squad this summer. We can’t wait to see him in action."

Upcoming Fixture and Role Expectations

Palacios might make his Ipswich debut soon when they face Manchester United at Old Trafford in their second Premier League match of the season. His top-level pedigree gives manager O’Neil a key weapon in the fight to keep Ipswich stable in the Premier League. Quickly adapting to the midfield role will be important to maintain defensive balance and control during critical matches ahead.

• Match: Bayer Leverkusen vs Elversberg – 29 Aug 2026, 15:30
• Match: Manchester United vs Ipswich Town – 30 Aug 2026, 17:30