RB Leipzig are considering options to retain the services of Brajan Gruda beyond the conclusion of his current loan agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion, according to reports in Germany. The 21-year-old attacker is presently due to return to the Premier League club at the end of the season, but Leipzig are keen to extend his stay in the Bundesliga.
Gruda joined Leipzig on loan in January and has made a positive impact, contributing three goals and three assists in his appearances for the club thus far. His performances have evidently impressed the Leipzig hierarchy, prompting them to investigate the possibility of keeping him for at least another season. However, a permanent transfer is deemed unrealistic due to Brighton’s valuation of the player.
Brighton signed Gruda from Mainz in 2024 for a reported fee of €31.5 million, and are expected to want to recoup a significant portion of that investment should they decide to sell. This financial obstacle makes a permanent deal difficult for Leipzig to pursue. As a result, the club are focusing on negotiating another loan arrangement with Brighton.
Gruda has represented Germany at various youth levels, and his development has been closely monitored by several clubs across Europe. He initially struggled for consistent game time at Brighton following his move from Mainz, which prompted the loan spell to Leipzig to provide him with more regular first-team football. His recent form in the Bundesliga suggests he is benefiting from this increased playing time.
Negotiations between Leipzig and Brighton are expected to take place in the coming weeks. Successfully securing another loan for Gruda would provide a boost to Leipzig’s attacking options, while also allowing the player to continue his development in a familiar environment. A prolonged stay in Leipzig could also potentially increase his value should Brighton reconsider a permanent sale in the future.
