Openda could be next big Leipzig departure, per Bild

After a disappointing season marked by underperformance and European exclusion, RB Leipzig are set for a sweeping overhaul, and striker Loïs Openda may be the next high-profile departure.

According to Sport Bild, the Belgian international is looking to leave the club this summer. Openda, 25, had a strong debut season in 2023/24, tallying 35 goal contributions across all competitions. Though his numbers dipped slightly this past campaign (24 goals), he remains one of Leipzig’s top performers.

A costly asset on the market

RB Leipzig paid a reported €40 million to bring Openda in from RC Lens in 2023, a deal that included a friendly between the two clubs, set to be played on August 9. However, there’s a growing chance Openda won’t be in the squad by then.

Despite being under contract until 2028, Leipzig are said to be open to offers. While no current suitors have been confirmed, past interest from Juventus and Premier League clubs suggests there could be serious bidders if the Belgian becomes officially available.

Leipzig preparing for a major reset

After weeks of uncertainty, the appointment of Ole Werner as head coach has provided some clarity. Now, Leipzig’s focus has shifted to aggressively reshaping a squad deemed both bloated and overpriced. The club is aiming to cut costs, reduce squad size, and build a more sustainable team structure.

But not all departures will be fringe players. Leipzig may be forced to part ways with some of their biggest names to fund the rebuild.

In addition to Openda, Xavi Simons and Benjamin Sesko have both indicated a desire to leave. RB Leipzig are reportedly seeking between €150–170 million from the trio’s potential transfers to reinvest in the squad.

The road ahead

For Leipzig fans, this summer promises significant change, though as of late June, little concrete movement has occurred. With the club needing to generate funds through major sales, the coming weeks could see a flurry of high-profile exits.

Whether or not Openda will be part of the club’s future remains uncertain. What is clear: Leipzig’s rebuild is real, and it’s already in motion.