Official: Leverkusen talent Natali joins AZ Alkmaar permanently

The Italian prospect, aged just 18, will remain with the Dutch club after last season's loan deal was made permanent.

Photo: Christof Koepsel/Getty Images.

Bayer Leverkusen prospect Andrea Natali will continue his career permanently at AZ Alkmaar, both clubs have officially announced. 

After a one-year loan spell last season, the Eredivise side have signed the 18-year-old permanently from Leverkusen.

The centre-half has signed a contract at Alkmaar until summer of 2031 and cost between €2 and 3 million in total.

Natali never played for the Rhinelanders' first team, but made a combined 29 appearances for the Leverkusen U-17 and U-19 sides. 

“I am incredibly happy to be back here and to finally play for AZ Alkmaar. Last year I received a very warm welcome from the team.

"So too, the entire coaching staff and all employees, so it’s great to be able to work with everyone again,” said Natali upon his return.