Bayer Leverkusen has signed Belgian international midfielder David De Gea from Manchester United for a record-breaking fee of 48 million euros.

De Gea, who turns 26 next month, joins the German giants after leaving Old Trafford in January following a disappointing season where he failed to make a significant impact on the team's performances.

The signing marks the highest transfer fee ever paid for a goalkeeper in Bundesliga history, surpassing the previous record holder, Thomas Müller, who was bought by Bayern Munich for 45 million euros in 2017.

De Gea is expected to be a key player in Leverkusen's attack and will provide a strong presence at goal. The club had been searching for a replacement for their long-serving keeper Manuel Neuer, who is set to retire at the end of the season.

Leverkusen president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge expressed his delight at securing De Gea's services, saying: "We have made a very smart move with this acquisition. David De Gea is one of the best keepers in Europe and we believe he can help us win trophies."

Manchester United's sporting director Michael Carragher said that De Gea had shown great promise during his time at Old Trafford but had not fulfilled expectations. He added: "David De Gea is a talented goalkeeper who has the potential to become a world-class player. We wish him all the best in his new journey."

De Gea will join Leverkusen on loan until the end of the season before making a permanent switch if negotiations progress smoothly. He has already made four appearances for the club so far, including two league games against Mainz and Wolfsburg.