RB Leipzig goalkeeper Péter Gulácsi is expected to join Villarreal, according to comments made by Leipzig manager Martin Demichelis following a pre-season friendly against Ingolstadt. Gulácsi was an unused substitute in the 2-1 victory, played in two 60-minute segments, signalling his likely departure. No fee or contract details have been disclosed at this time.
The Hungary international has been a mainstay in the Leipzig squad since joining from Salzburg in 2015, playing a key role in their rise through the German football pyramid. He has made over 250 appearances for the club, establishing himself as one of the Bundesliga’s most consistent goalkeepers. Last season, Gulácsi featured in 25 Bundesliga matches, keeping seven clean sheets, but faced increased competition from Janis Blaswich.
Demichelis also addressed the future of defender Yan Diomande, who has been heavily linked with a move away from the club. While reaffirming that Diomande remains a Leipzig player, the manager acknowledged the unpredictable nature of football, suggesting a transfer is still possible. Sky Sports reported Demichelis stating, “He (Diomande) is still an RB Leipzig player. But, in football, anything can happen.”
Diomande, an Ivorian international, has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, with reports suggesting a significant bid could trigger his departure. He made 34 appearances across all competitions for Leipzig last season, becoming a vital part of their defensive line. The potential sale of Diomande would likely free up funds for Leipzig to strengthen other areas of the squad.
In other team news, new signings Maxime Estève and Rocco Reitz featured in the friendly, though Reitz is still working his way back to full fitness. Assan Ouédraogo also played after recently returning from the World Cup, while most of the remaining first-team players are expected to return to training on Monday, with the exception of Antonio Nusa, who is still involved with the Norwegian national team. The arrival of these players signals Leipzig’s intent to build on their strong finish to last season and challenge for Champions League qualification once again.
