**Bayer Leverkusen Signs Belgian International Midfielder for €48 Million Record Fee**

Bayer Leverkusen has made a significant move in the world of football with the signing of Belgium international midfielder Kevin De Bruyne from Manchester City. The transfer fee for the 25-year-old is set at €48 million, making it the highest transfer fee in Bundesliga history.

De Bruyne's arrival at Bayer Leverkusen marks a major coup for the German club, who have been struggling to maintain their top-tier status over the past few seasons. The former Manchester City star has already made an impact on the pitch for the Blues, scoring 17 goals and assisting 16 in 29 appearances this season.

The transfer was completed on Friday, August 11th, and De Bruyne will join his new team-mates in Cologne on September 1st. He is expected to play a key role in the attack alongside Thomas Müller, Robert Lewandowski, and Julian Nagelsmann, as well as provide support in midfield.

Bayer Leverkusen's decision to sign De Bruyne comes just days after they announced the signing of forward Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund. Both moves suggest that the club is looking to strengthen its squad ahead of the upcoming Champions League campaign.

The transfer fee for De Bruyne represents a record-breaking sum in Bundesliga history, surpassing the previous record holder, Bayern Munich's Thomas Muller, whose £35.2 million transfer fee was set in 2014. This move shows the growing interest in De Bruyne from European clubs, particularly those seeking to bolster their attacking options.

Despite the high price tag, many fans and analysts believe that De Bruyne's talent and experience make him a valuable addition to Bayer Leverkusen's squad. His ability to score goals and create opportunities for his teammates could help the club regain their form and challenge for the league title.

The signing of De Bruyne also raises questions about the future of Manchester City, which had hoped to retain the services of the talented midfielder. However, the club's financial situation has become increasingly challenging in recent years, and the transfer fee for De Bruyne may have forced them to make difficult decisions.

Overall, the signing of Kevin De Bruyne for €48 million is likely to be remembered as one of the biggest transfers in Bundesliga history, and it will undoubtedly shape the course of the club's fortunes in the coming months.