RB Leipzig are close to completing a deal for Hoffenheim striker Fisnik Asllani, moving ahead of Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund in the race to sign the 23-year-old during the summer transfer window.
Hoffenheim have confirmed that Asllani will not join the squad for their pre-season training camp in Seefeld, Austria. His absence has increased speculation that he is nearing a move away from the club, with an agreement expected in the coming days.
According to German newspaper Bild, Asllani’s transfer to RB Leipzig is now at an advanced stage and could be formally completed while the club is in camp. The remaining discussions are understood to centre on final details of the Kosovo international’s salary with his representatives.
Asllani was also left out of Hoffenheim’s most recent friendly matches before the start of the new season as negotiations over his future continued. His performances have attracted interest from several prominent clubs, including Spanish giants Barcelona and Bundesliga rivals Borussia Dortmund.
However, RB Leipzig are currently in the strongest position to secure his signature.
The deal has not yet been finalised because RB Leipzig have still to activate the €30m release clause in Asllani’s contract. That delay is not linked solely to the financial commitment involved. The club are also considering the balance of their squad and whether they need to add another player in Asllani’s position.
RB Leipzig already have several options who can operate in the same role. Their squad includes Romulo, 24, Konrad Harder, 21, and 17-year-old prospect Samba Konate.
As a result, the club are not expected to proceed decisively with the transfer unless the departure of one of those players becomes imminent. Such a move would create space for Asllani to join the squad.
The potential loss of Asllani would represent a significant sporting setback for Hoffenheim, although it is not expected to seriously disrupt their preparations. The club have strengthened their squad with several important additions during the current transfer window.
Hoffenheim have signed 17-year-old Belgian defender Nathan De Cat, as well as Austria forward Patrick Wimmer, 25. Those arrivals have left the club close to completing their squad with about four weeks remaining before the summer transfer window closes.
For now, the focus remains on the final stages of negotiations between Asllani’s representatives and RB Leipzig. The German club’s decision on their existing attacking options will be an important factor in determining when the transfer can be officially announced.
