The attacking midfielder joined Leverkusen in 2025 for a reported €35 million, with the club hoping he could help fill the creative void left by Florian Wirtz’s move to Liverpool.
However, Tillman has yet to meet expectations consistently. After six appearances this season, the 24-year-old has registered just one assist, raising questions about his place in the team under head coach Carles Martínez.
Tillman had already come close to leaving during the summer transfer window but opted to remain and attempt to revive his Leverkusen career. That decision has so far produced limited progress, with the coming weeks now viewed as an important period for the American.
Sport Bild reports that a winter transfer could become a serious possibility if he fails to take advantage of his remaining opportunities.
The situation is particularly disappointing given the investment Leverkusen made to bring him to Germany. The club recruited Tillman to add creativity and attacking threat following Wirtz’s departure, but he has struggled to make the same impact.
There remains interest in England, where several Premier League clubs have previously considered signing him. Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham and Bournemouth were among the teams linked with the midfielder during the summer.
Brighton reportedly pursued a deal towards the end of the transfer window, with reports suggesting Leverkusen rejected an offer worth around €45 million. The German club therefore valued Tillman highly despite his difficult first year.
His performances for the United States have offered a more encouraging picture, suggesting that he retains the ability to influence matches when given the right role and opportunities.
Leverkusen must now decide whether patience is likely to produce a turnaround or whether a January departure would suit both parties.
For Tillman, the immediate priority is to convince Martínez that he deserves a more prominent role. If he cannot do so, the winter window could provide an opportunity to restart his career elsewhere.