RB Leipzig’s Transfer Strategy and Season Update

The latest installment of our Bundesliga transfer primers on Get German Football News focuses on RB Leipzig. Following our earlier examination of Bayer 04 Leverkusen, it is worth noting that both clubs have navigated a significant transformation with remarkable speed, allowing them to regain prominence in German football.

Leipzig’s recent signings have shown greater promise during the pre-season compared to their counterparts at Leverkusen, leading to a quicker team cohesion under Ole Werner’s management. However, recent setbacks due to a series of injuries have posed challenges, resulting in consecutive losses prior to the winter break.

In their final league match of 2025, Leipzig suffered defeat against Leverkusen. Had it not been for these losses, the team might have been contending for the title as they currently sit in fourth place with 29 points, accumulating nine wins, two draws, and four losses.

The Bundesliga season started poorly for Leipzig, facing a heavy defeat against FC Bayern München. Nonetheless, the team rebounded with four straight league victories, maintaining an unbeaten streak until a draw against Dortmund on match-day six. They continued their strong form into the following months, culminating in an impressive nine-match unbeaten run.

Looking ahead, Leipzig will face Bayern twice in the upcoming DFB-Pokal quarterfinals, and will also contend with St. Pauli and Freiburg to conclude the Hin-Runde in January. Their schedule suggests a favorable opportunity for continued success, although a title race appears unlikely this season.

Financially, Leipzig has reported an estimated summer transfer balance of +€61 million. Notably, the acquisition of new superstar Yan Diomande for a mere €1.5 million has been a highlight, with the 19-year-old Ivorian talent generating excitement ahead of this summer’s World Cup.

While there have been some disappointing signings such as Arthur Vermeeren and Kosta Nedeljkovic, the contributions from Brazilian striker Romulo and fellow newcomer Conrad Harder have been crucial to Leipzig’s resurgence. Belgian international Johan Bakayoko continues to offer value despite recent form dips, and Ezecheiel Banzuzi has proven to be a reliable performer.

With right-back Ridle Baku sidelined by injury and Benjamin Henrichs still recovering, Nedeljkovic’s potential return from loan could play a pivotal role for the squad. The team’s depth will be key as they aim for a top-four finish and a return to Champions League football.

Sporting director Marcel Schäfer has effectively streamlined the roster from 36 to 30 players, although further reductions are necessary, particularly for players like Tidiam Gomis and Samba Konaté. Although the future of veteran Lukas Klostermann remains uncertain, the club appears to value young talent like El Chadaille Bitshiabu.

As for expiring contracts, players including Peter Gulacsi, Xaver Schlager, Kevin Kampl, and Timo Werner will require consideration as the club assesses its long-term strategy. Despite some speculation regarding incoming players, the current squad is largely well-equipped, necessitating only minor adjustments to bolster defensive depth as they eye a return to European competition.

In conclusion, while RB Leipzig is poised for a competitive second half of the season, the focus will remain on maintaining squad integrity and ensuring financial stability as they navigate the transfer market.