RB Leipzig is reportedly shifting its transfer strategy to avoid high-cost deals in the future. According to a report, the club will no longer pursue marquee signings like the €50 million move for Xavi Simons or the €40 million transfer of Loïs Openda. Instead, the new upper limit is set at €30 million, matching the fee paid for defender Castello Lukeba nearly three years ago. However, even that figure is expected to be the exception rather than the norm, with the Rocco Reitz deal—set at €20 million—serving as the benchmark.
The 23-year-old Reitz will join the Red Bulls this summer for €20 million, while winter signing Abdoul Koné (21) cost €17 million and was loaned back to Stade Reims. New arrivals Yan Diomande, Rômulo, and Arthur Vermeeren each came in at €20 million, and Conrad Harder was slightly above at €24 million but still under the ceiling. One reason for the spending restraint is missing out on Champions League qualification this season.
Nevertheless, Leipzig will return to the Champions League next season, but that doesn’t mean the club isn’t planning significant sales. “Anyone who knows our club knows that numbers play an extremely important role,” said sporting director Marcel Schäfer recently. While the mass exodus of key players seen over the past three years won’t be repeated, Bild reports that the club must generate around €113 million. Lukeba, whose market value has risen 50% since his arrival, is a likely departure. David Raum (28) could also leave, with a reported €40 million release clause.
Talks about a new contract for Raum might involve a “creative bonus scheme,” according to Sport Bild. Antonio Nusa (21) could attract interest following the World Cup. Meanwhile, Juventus has activated the purchase option for Openda, paying nearly €43 million.
On the incoming side, RB Leipzig is reportedly targeting Real Betis midfielder Sergi Altimira (24) with a market value of €20 million. Betis, however, is asking for over €25 million, according to Zona Mixta. Eintracht Frankfurt, VfB Stuttgart, and Bayer Leverkusen are also said to be interested. On Monday, representatives of Altimira met with Leipzig’s Schäfer in Seville, with images of the manager appearing online.
