Bayer Leverkusen reject second Ipswich offer for Exequiel Palacios | OneFootball

Ipswich Town have reportedly submitted a second offer for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Exequiel Palacios. The newly promoted Premier League side continue to push for the 27-year-old Argentina international after seeing an opening €20m bid rejected last week. Kicker reports that the new proposal represents only a marginal improvement on Ipswich’s first offer. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano nevertheless reports that negotiations remain active and that Ipswich are optimistic about completing the deal.

Get German Football News recently reported that the midfielder has informed Leverkusen of his desire to leave and is now open to joining Ipswich. Earlier in the summer, the World Cup winner had reportedly preferred a move to one of England’s established top clubs. Palacios is also said to have lowered his financial demands in order to facilitate a Premier League switch.

Leverkusen are seeking approximately €40m for their midfield mainstay. That stance reflects both Palacios’s contractual position and his importance to the squad. The former River Plate midfielder extended his Leverkusen deal through 2030 last autumn and therefore cannot exert significant contractual pressure on the club.

A departure would also force head coach Carles Martínez to reconsider an already evolving midfield. GGFN’s 2026/27 Bayer Leverkusen tactical preview projected Palacios as a likely starter in the centre of the pitch. Leverkusen have rebuffed repeated attempts by other clubs to poach him.

GGFN | Peter Weis