Levante Rejects €30m Eyong Bid Amidst Barcelona, Chelsea Interest
Levante forward Etta Eyong has become the hottest young talent in La Liga, with his explosive performances attracting major interest from Barcelona, Chelsea, and a host of European giants. The Spanish club is standing resolute after turning down a substantial €30 million offer from CSKA Moscow, affirming that Eyong will remain central to their plans as they battle for league survival.
Levante Striker Etta Eyong Emerges as Europe’s Top Prospect
Levante’s Etta Eyong has taken the Spanish top flight by storm this season. At just 22 years old, the Cameroonian striker has netted six goals and provided three assists across 12 La Liga matches, quickly climbing the ranks among elite scorers like Kylian Mbappe, Julian Alvarez, and Robert Lewandowski.
Eyong’s combination of pace, power, and clinical finishing has made him one of the season’s breakout stars. His rapid ascent has not gone unnoticed—Barcelona, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Manchester United have all reportedly joined the race for his signature. Despite the lucrative €30 million bid from CSKA Moscow, both Levante and Eyong himself refused the move, with Marca reporting the striker had no interest in relocating to Russia.
Levante’s Commitment to Eyong: Survival Over Profit
Levante’s leadership is adamant that Etta Eyong is untouchable this season. Club owner Jose Danvila stated, “We receive offers for him every day. But the player isn’t going to be sold. Our priority is staying up, not cashing out.” This stance comes as Levante sits 19th in La Liga, amassing just nine points from 12 games. Coach Julian Calero emphasized Eyong’s role: “He’s a vital part of our offensive structure and the kind of player who can change the course of a match.”
Retaining Eyong could prove decisive, as Calero believes the striker is capable of lifting the team out of the relegation zone and steering them towards a mid-table finish. Levante’s refusal to sell underscores their commitment to sporting ambition over financial gain.
Inside Eyong’s Contract: The Villarreal Connection
Eyong’s transfer saga is further complicated by a web of contractual clauses stemming from his previous club, Villarreal. After moving to Villarreal in 2024 and signing a three-year deal worth €520,000 per season, Eyong struggled for game time and joined Levante in September 2025 on a four-year contract, which included a €30 million release clause.
Villarreal still stand to benefit from any future sale through a multi-tiered sell-on clause. For transfers under €7.5 million, Villarreal would receive 80% of the fee. For deals between €7.5 million and €15 million, profits are split 50/50, and for amounts over €15 million, Levante takes 80% while Villarreal claims 20%. Notably, if Levante rejects any offer above €15 million, they must compensate Villarreal for the profit Villarreal would have earned, ensuring Villarreal’s continued financial interest in Eyong’s future. Additionally, Villarreal retains a right of first refusal on any future bids.
The Meteoric Rise: From Cadiz to La Liga Stardom
Etta Eyong’s journey has been defined by perseverance and rapid progress. He began his career in Spain’s lower divisions with Cadiz B, making sporadic first-team appearances. His move to Villarreal in 2024 was a turning point, allowing him to debut in La Liga in April 2025 and score his first top-flight goal shortly after.
Levante secured Eyong for €3 million, and his impact was immediate as he quickly became a starter and star performer. With six goals already this season, Eyong attributes his success to relentless hard work and a winning mentality. “I came here to play regularly and help keep Levante in La Liga. The key to my scoring streak is hard work,” he said in a recent interview.
Eyong’s blend of athleticism and technical ability has drawn comparisons to legendary strikers Didier Drogba and Samuel Eto’o, both of whom inspired him throughout his development.
Levante’s Stance Amid Relegation Battle
Amid mounting transfer interest, Levante remains focused on their fight for survival. With the club entrenched in the relegation zone, selling their top scorer is not an option. CEO Danvila and coach Calero have both stressed that retaining Eyong is crucial, citing his influence on and off the pitch. “He’s still adjusting, but his impact is undeniable. He gives us belief,” Calero says.
Eyong is also preparing to represent Cameroon in upcoming World Cup qualifiers, but Levante’s ambitions remain tied to his continued success. The club’s ability to withstand pressure from Europe’s elite could well define their season.
Opinion: Levante’s Gamble on Eyong Is the Right Move
Levante’s decision to reject lucrative offers and keep Etta Eyong is both bold and commendable. Prioritizing survival and team spirit over short-term profit sends a strong message, not just to fans but to the wider football world. If Eyong maintains his form, Levante’s gamble could not only secure their top-flight status but also elevate the striker’s value even further. It’s a risk worth taking, and one that could transform the club’s fortunes in the years to come.
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