{IMAGE_1}
RB Leipzig is reportedly shifting its transfer strategy, moving away from high-cost signings. According to a report, the club will no longer pursue deals like the €50 million acquisition of Xavi Simons or the €40 million move for Loïs Openda. Instead, a new spending limit will likely be applied to potential targets, including Real Betis midfielder Sergi Altimira (24).
{IMAGE_2}
The club’s new policy sets a maximum transfer fee of €30 million, a figure that was used nearly three years ago to sign defender Castello Lukeba (23), whose market value has since risen to €45 million. However, even this amount is expected to be an exception, with the focus shifting toward more moderate fees. The €20 million deal for Borussia Mönchengladbach’s Rocco Reitz serves as the new benchmark.
Reitz, 23, will join Leipzig this summer for €20 million. Last winter, the club already showed restraint by signing defender Abdoul Koné (21) for €17 million, though he was immediately loaned back to Stade Reims. Other recent arrivals, including Yan Diomande, Rômulo, and Arthur Vermeeren, all came for around €20 million, while Conrad Harder cost €24 million—slightly above the new target but still below the ceiling. The club’s failure to qualify for the Champions League this season is cited as a key reason for the spending cap.
{IMAGE_3}
Despite securing a spot in next season’s Champions League, Leipzig faces significant financial pressure. “Anyone who knows our club knows that numbers play a crucial role,” said sporting director Marcel Schäfer. While the club sold a large portion of its key players over the past three years, this summer’s sales are expected to be less dramatic. According to reports, Leipzig needs to generate around €113 million in revenue. Selling Lukeba, whose market value has increased by 50% since his arrival, seems likely. Captain David Raum (28) could also depart, with an exit clause of approximately €40 million. Talks over a contract extension might include a “creative bonus arrangement,” according to reports. Meanwhile, Antonio Nusa (21) could attract interest following the World Cup, and Leipzig benefits from Juventus activating Openda’s purchase option for nearly €43 million.
{IMAGE_4}
Leipzig is reportedly targeting Altimira, a midfielder from Real Betis valued at €20 million. However, Betis is said to be demanding more than €25 million for the 24-year-old. Rivals including Eintracht Frankfurt, VfB Stuttgart, and Bayer Leverkusen have also shown interest. A meeting between Altimira’s representatives and Leipzig’s Schäfer reportedly took place in Seville on Monday, with photos of the manager appearing in the Andalusian city.
