BERLIN, Sept. 1 (Xinhua) -- Bayer Leverkusen completed the signing of Argentine midfielder Ezequiel Fernandez from Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah on Monday.

The 23-year-old has signed a deal at the BayArena until June 2030, and will wear the No. 6 shirt.

"With Ezequiel we are adding a player who combines strength in challenges with a reliable passing game," said sporting director Simon Rolfes. "He plays with intensity, shows resilience and tactical intelligence, and will raise the overall standard of our squad. His arrival will also increase competition in midfield."

Fernendez, who usually operates in a holding role, is regarded as a robust ball-winner with strong passing qualities and a tireless work ethic. At 1.78 meters tall, the left-footer brings defensive stability as well as composure in possession.

The Buenos Aires-born midfielder started his professional career at Boca Juniors before moving to Al-Qadsiah in 2024. Across his career to date, he has made 147 senior appearances in Argentina and Saudi Arabia. On the international stage, he featured for Argentina at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where he played four matches and scored once.

His transfer comes shortly after the departure of Granit Xhaka, who left Leverkusen to join Premier League side Sunderland earlier this summer. Fernandez is expected to provide immediate depth in the defensive midfield role and compete with Robert Andrich, while offering a slightly different profile.

For the new arrival, the move is a significant step forward. "Playing in Europe has always been a dream for me," Fernandez said. "Several of my compatriots are already here and told me about the culture and ambition of this club. I am convinced we can celebrate important victories together."

Fernandez's arrival comes as head coach Erik ten Hag was sacked on Monday after just two months and three matches in charge of Leverkusen. ■