RB Leipzig have completed the signing of Japanese attacker Ota Yamamoto from Kashiwa Reysol, the Bundesliga club confirmed on Tuesday. The 22-year-old has signed a long-term contract with Die Roten Bullen, extending to 2031, but will immediately rejoin RB Ōmiya Ardija on a season-long loan.
Yamamoto spent the previous season on loan at Ardija, where he enjoyed a productive campaign, scoring 10 goals and providing three assists in 19 appearances. The forward’s performances for the J2 League side clearly impressed Leipzig officials, prompting them to secure his services permanently despite the immediate return to Ōmiya. Kashiwa Reysol will not receive a transfer fee as the deal was structured as a free transfer.
Yamamoto is a versatile attacking player, capable of operating in multiple positions. While naturally an attacking midfielder, he can also feature as a second striker or winger, offering tactical flexibility to both Leipzig and, for the time being, Ardija. He progressed through the youth ranks at Kashiwa Reysol before establishing himself as a key player in their first team.
The decision to loan Yamamoto back to Ardija suggests RB Leipzig are keen for him to continue his development with regular first-team football. The club already has a strong relationship with Ardija, which is part of the Red Bull family of clubs, making the loan move a straightforward process. This arrangement allows Leipzig to monitor his progress closely while ensuring he remains match-sharp. The move provides Yamamoto with the opportunity to continue building momentum in familiar surroundings, potentially paving the way for a more significant role within the Leipzig squad in the future.
