Conrad Harder Set To Join RB Leipzig After Rejecting Milan And Rennes

Sporting striker Conrad Harder is close to joining RB Leipzig. He turned down higher offers from AC Milan and strong interest from Rennes. The transfer is expected to change Leipzig’s attacking line-up for the 2025-26 season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

RB Leipzig is in advanced talks with Conrad Harder and has reached a personal agreement with the striker. Their offer for the 20-year-old Danish forward is just over €20 million, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. Sporting Lisbon has not accepted the offer yet, but Harder chose Leipzig despite Milan’s larger financial proposal and weeks of effort from Rennes. For Harder, the decision was not about money. Leipzig prepared the move as Juventus began showing interest in their current striker Loïs Openda, who might depart for around €40 million. Leipzig’s transfer actions indicate plans for significant changes in their squad.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Leipzig are rebuilding their attack after selling Xavi Simons and Benjamin Šeško this summer. If Openda leaves, Harder will join a new offensive group with Antonio Nusa, Johan Bakayoko, Yan Diomande, and Rômulo. Last season, Leipzig finished seventh in the Bundesliga, failing to secure Champions League qualification which promoted its most valuable players to leave the team. Sporting, Harder’s current club, won Portugal’s Primeira Liga and Portuguese Cup last season. Harder appeared in 28 league games, scoring 14 goals and assisting 7 times, marking him out as one of the brightest young talents in Europe.

WHAT NEXT FOR LEIPZIG AND OPPONENTS?

RB Leipzig’s next outing is against Heidenheim in the Bundesliga. Leipzig will want to get back to winning ways after losing their opener to Bayern Munich 6-0 and get back on track for Champions League qualification this season. The next few matches are crucial for both sides. Leipzig’s fans will hope Harder’s arrival boosts their squad depth. Milan, who lost out on Harder, play Bologna in their 3rd Serie A match after one win and one loss. Rennes are preparing to bid for Monaco’s Breel Embolo now, trying to fill their striker gap for their Ligue 1 campaign.