Napoli Make First Move to Bring Back Eljif Elmas from RB Leipzig

Napoli have sent RB Leipzig their first offer for Eljif Elmas. They want to sign the midfielder on loan with an option to buy for €11.5 million. The loan fee is €1.5 million, and Napoli will pay his salary during the loan. Napoli is hoping to finalize the transfer deal soon for clarity before their respective schedules get busy.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Eljif Elmas hasn’t settled at RB Leipzig since leaving Napoli in January 2024. He struggled to become a regular starter in Germany and didn’t fit coach Marco Rose’s style. Leipzig paid around €24 million for Elmas, but after a year and a loan to Torino, they seem ready to let him go. They want a permanent deal. Napoli want a loan with a buy option. Elmas was popular among fans and coach Antonio Conte at Napoli. Currently, Elmas is training alone in Germany. Many Italian clubs, including Torino, have shown interest in him. However, Elmas wants to return to Napoli.

ELMAS’ SEASON SO FAR

Elmas has had limited playing time at RB Leipzig and made only a few Bundesliga appearances, without being able to score or assist any goals. He was loaned to Torino, where he played 14 Serie A games but scored only one goal. Leipzig finished 7th in the Bundesliga and failed to qualify for the Europa League but didn’t meet expectations due to inconsistent team form. Napoli had a challenging season as well, although they finished as winners in the Serie A and reached Champions League football. Their star forward Lukaku got a long-term injury, and the team is actively looking for additional attacking options.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR NAPOLI AND LEIPZIG?

Napoli’s next match is against Sassuolo in Serie A. Sassuolo are back in the Serie A after a stint and promotion from Italy’s 2nd tier last season. Leipzig’s Bundesliga opener is against champions Bayern Munich, who finished 13 points ahead of Bayer Leverkusen last season. With Napoli looking to rebuild and Leipzig wanting to offload Elmas, negotiations are expected to continue as both clubs seek a compromise. If Elmas returns to Napoli, he will aim to regain his form and help the club improve their Serie A standings.