Levante Holding Firm as Barcelona and Chelsea Face Competition for Young Forward Eyong
Levante striker Etta Eyong has become a sensation in La Liga, attracting the interest of top European clubs. Despite a €30 million bid from CSKA Moscow being rejected, Barcelona, Chelsea, and other giants are circling around the 22-year-old forward.
Levante striker Etta Eyong has taken La Liga by storm, scoring freely and drawing attention from Europe’s biggest clubs. But even a €30 million bid from CSKA Moscow couldn’t lure him away. With Barcelona, Chelsea and Real Madrid circling, Levante are holding firm and are determined to keep the Cameroonian forward as coach Julian Cavero aims for La Liga survival this season. At just 22, Eyong has become one of the most sought-after young forwards in Europe. His explosive pace, power, and finishing have made him a sensation in Spain’s top flight, where he’s already scored six goals and registered three assists in 12 matches, placing him among the division’s top scorers behind Kylian Mbappe, Julian Alvarez and Robert Lewandowski.His performances have triggered a flurry of interest from elite clubs. CSKA Moscow tested the waters first, reportedly offering €30 million, but both Levante and the player turned it down. According to Marca, the striker had no interest in moving to Russia despite a lucrative salary proposal.Meanwhile, Barcelona and Chelsea have entered the conversation, impressed by his rise in form since joining Levante this year. Madrid, Arsenal, and Manchester United are also keeping tabs, making Eyong one of the most monitored forwards in Europe this season.However, Levante have clarified their stance: Eyong is untouchable this season. Club owner Jose Danvila reaffirmed this stance, saying: “We receive offers for him every day. But the player isn’t going to be sold. Our priority is staying up, not cashing out.”Behind Eyong’s transfer saga lies a complex web of clauses stemming from his 2024 move to Villarreal. The Cameroonian initially signed a three-year deal with Villarreal, earning around €520,000 per season. But after struggling for game time, he switched to Levante in September 2025 on a four-year contract worth €1 million annually and a €30m release clause.Villarreal, however, made sure they would benefit from any future sale. Their contract includes a multi-tiered sell-on clause: For transfers under €7.5m- Villarreal receive 80% of the fee, between €7.5m-€15m the profits are split 50/50, and anything above €15m gives Levante 80% of proceeds, with Villarreal taking 20%.If Levante reject any offer above €15m, they must still compensate Villarreal for the profit they would’ve earned, a clause designed to ensure Villarreal profits even from failed sales. They also retain a right of first refusal, allowing them to match future bids.This intricate structure means that Villarreal remain financially invested in Eyong’s future, while Levante must weigh sporting priorities against contractual obligations.Eyong has spoken openly about the hardships he has faced on his journey to success. With six goals this season, Eyong said it's all because of his hard work and the mentality to keep striving."I came here to play regularly and to help keep Levante in La Liga. The key to my scoring streak this season is simply hard work," Eyong said in a post-match interview. Eyong’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. He began his professional journey in Spain’s lower divisions with Cadiz B, making sporadic first-team appearances before moving to Villarreal in August 2024.He debuted in La Liga in April 2025 and scored his first top-flight goal just weeks later, showcasing the instinctive finishing that would soon define his game. When Levante signed him for €3m, few expected such an immediate impact, but Eyong quickly became a starter, netting six goals in matches so far this season. Eyong’s blend of athletic power and technical maturity has drawn comparisons to Didier Drogba and Samuel Eto’o, two strikers he idolised growing up.Despite mounting pressure, Levante have no intention of selling Eyong, especially mid-season. The club sit 19th in La Liga with just nine points from 12 games, making survival their top priority. CEO Danvila confirmed that “it doesn’t make sense to sell your best player while fighting to stay in the top flight.”Head coach Julian Calero shares that conviction. He’s been vocal about Eyong’s importance, calling him “a vital part of our offensive structure and the kind of player who can change the course of a match.” Calero believes that if Eyong maintains his form, Levante can secure a mid-table finish, turning a survival campaign into a success story.The manager has also praised Eyong’s attitude and adaptability. “He’s still adjusting, but his impact is undeniable. He gives us belief,” Calero noted. Even as Eyong prepares to join Cameroon for World Cup qualifiers, his role at Levante remains central to the team’s ambitions.
Eyong's Rapid Rise in La Liga
Eyong has been in scintillating form for Levante, scoring six goals and providing three assists in just 12 matches this season. His explosive pace, power, and clinical finishing have made him one of the most sought-after young forwards in Europe.
Interest from Elite Clubs
CSKA Moscow's €30 million bid was turned down by both Levante and Eyong, signaling their determination to keep hold of the talented forward. Clubs like Barcelona, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Manchester United are closely monitoring Eyong's progress.
Levante's Firm Stance
Levante's ownership has made it clear that Eyong is not for sale this season. Despite lucrative offers coming in, the club is focused on securing their La Liga status and views Eyong as crucial to their survival campaign.
The Intricacies of Eyong's Contract
Eyong's transfer saga involves a complex web of clauses stemming from his move to Villarreal in 2024. Villarreal stands to benefit from any future sale due to a multi-tiered sell-on clause, which also includes a right of first refusal.
Eyong's Journey and Work Ethic
Eyong has worked hard to reach this level of success, overcoming obstacles on his journey. The 22-year-old striker attributes his scoring streak to dedication and a relentless work ethic, aiming to help Levante stay in La Liga.
Levante's Sporting Priorities
Levante's CEO and head coach are aligned in their belief that retaining Eyong is crucial, especially given the team's current position in the league. They see Eyong as a key player who can turn their season around and secure a respectable finish in La Liga.


