RB Leipzig have confirmed the departures of two academy graduates, with Lionel Voufack joining FC Köln and Frederik Jäkel making a permanent move to Eintracht Braunschweig. Both players were seeking increased playing time to further their development.
Voufack, an 18-year-old defender, came through the ranks at Leipzig, completing his footballing education at the club’s academy. According to RB Leipzig’s official statement, Voufack will initially join FC Köln’s U-21 team ahead of the 2026-27 season, suggesting a developmental role at the Bundesliga club. The transfer represents a return to his home region, as Voufack hails from Leipzig.
Jäkel’s move to Braunschweig follows a successful loan spell with the 2. Bundesliga side during the 2025-26 season. The center-back progressed through RB Leipzig’s youth academy from 2013 to 2020, but has spent the intervening years gaining experience through a series of loan moves. These included stints with Belgian side KV Oostende, as well as German clubs Arminia Bielefeld and SV Elversberg, in addition to his time with Braunschweig. In total, Jäkel has made 45 appearances across these loan spells.
The permanent transfer to Braunschweig offers Jäkel the opportunity to establish himself as a regular first-team player, something that was not guaranteed at Leipzig. Both departures reflect RB Leipzig’s policy of allowing young players to develop through consistent game time, even if it means moving them on from the club. These moves will likely free up squad space and resources for Leipzig as they continue to build their first team, while providing valuable opportunities for Voufack and Jäkel to progress their careers.
