RB Leipzig are intensifying their efforts to keep Brajan Gruda at the club beyond his current loan agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion, according to reports from BILD. The Bundesliga side have cancelled a planned farewell ceremony for the attacking midfielder ahead of Saturday’s match against FC St. Pauli, suggesting a potential shift in negotiations with his parent club.
Gruda joined Leipzig on loan in the winter transfer window and has quickly become a valuable asset for manager Ole Werner. In 11 Bundesliga appearances, the 21-year-old has scored three goals and provided three assists, significantly boosting Leipzig’s attacking options. His performances have led the club to reassess their plans for the summer transfer window.
The initial expectation was that Gruda would return to Brighton at the end of the season, but Leipzig are now actively pursuing a longer-term arrangement. However, a permanent transfer is proving difficult to negotiate, with Brighton reportedly seeking a fee of around €30 million. Leipzig consider this valuation to be too high and are instead focusing on securing another loan deal for the player.
Gruda came through the youth ranks at Mainz 05 before joining Brighton in the summer of 2023. He has made limited appearances for the Premier League side, prompting the loan move to Germany to gain regular first-team football. His recent form for Leipzig has demonstrated his potential, and he appears to have adapted well to the Bundesliga.
The cancellation of the farewell event indicates Leipzig’s belief that a deal to extend Gruda’s stay is still possible. While a permanent transfer remains a challenge due to the financial demands of Brighton, another loan could provide a mutually beneficial solution, allowing Gruda to continue his development and Leipzig to retain a key attacking player. Securing Gruda’s services, even on loan, would represent a positive outcome for Leipzig as they look to build a competitive squad for next season.
