The Catalans are hot favourites to successfully defend their European crown after finishing top of Group H with almost twice as many points as second-placed AC Milan, while Pep Guardiola's men also went unbeaten in that time, winning five and drawing one.
Meanwhile, the Bundesliga outfit earned second spot in Group E to set up a last-16 meeting against Barca, who have not lost in their last seven visits to Germany. However, it was Leverkusen who last inflicted defeat on the Spanish champions in the country, clinching a 2-1 win in the 2001-02 Champions League group stages.
On the team front, the hosts have suffered several set-backs, most notably that of Michael Ballack who will miss the midweek tie after injuring his calf during training on Sunday.
The German international joins Bayer's top scorers Eren Derdiyok (foot) and Sidney Sam (thigh) on the casualty list.
However, manager Robin Dutt is boosted by the news defender Danny da Costa should be fit for selection, despite picking up a knock to his shin in practice.
For Barca, midfielder Sergio Busquets has traveled with the squad and will be handed a late fitness test as he looks to fully recover a bruised knee.
The La Liga juggernauts are also set to welcome Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez and Cesc Fabregas back to the fray after the trio were named on the bench for Saturday's defeat to Osasuna.
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