Ipswich Town have offered €30m (£26m) for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Exequiel Palacios. The third bid, announced on 24 August 2026, brings the Premier League club close to a deal that could see the 27‑year‑old join the English side.
Third offer
The club’s latest package is the third consecutive proposal, up from earlier offers that fell short of Leverkusen’s €35m (£30.3m) demand. The new bid includes a transfer fee and bonuses that total €30m (£26m).
Clubs close to agreement
Sources say the two sides are “very, very close” to finalising the transfer. The German club’s expectations have been met, and the Premier League side hopes this will be the last offer.
Palacios’ willingness
Earlier reports suggested the midfielder might prefer a “bigger club” if he left Leverkusen. Pantich now says Palacios is very keen to become a Premier League player, easing previous doubts.
Player profile
The 27‑year‑old has been with Bayer Leverkusen since January 2020. His last season was disrupted by a serious right adductor injury, keeping him out for much of the first half of the campaign. He finished that season with 25 appearances, one assist and a World Cup call‑up.
Financial details
River Plate, which holds rights to a future sale, is expected to receive around €4.3m (£3.7m) from the operation through their rights and FIFA’s solidarity mechanism.
Persistence pays off
After two unsuccessful attempts, the €30m (£26m) third offer has put Palacios within touching distance of a move to England, signalling Ipswich Town’s determination to secure the transfer.
