Red Devil Bakayoko threatens to leave Leipzig in January

Johan Bakayoko, the 23‑year‑old Red Devil, could leave RB Leipzig this coming winter. According to Sky Sport, the German club is open to a departure of the 23‑year‑old Belgian, who has not been able to settle since his transfer from PSV Eindhoven. His stay in the Bundesliga is already at risk of ending after just a year and a half.

Financial and contractual situation

Leipzig brought Bakayoko to Germany in the summer of 2025 for €18 million, with bonuses rising to €22 million. The winger signed a contract until 2030, but has not yet lived up to the high expectations. Under both Ole Werner and his successor Martin Demichelis, Bakayoko failed to secure a regular starting place.

In total he amassed 26 official matches for Leipzig, in which he scored three times. This season his role has become even more limited; in the Bundesliga and the DFB‑Pokal he featured only four times, amounting to just 149 minutes of play. Consequently, he has so far not managed to make his mark.

According to Sky Sport, Leipzig is aiming for at least €11‑12 million in a definitive sale. A loan spell during the winter transfer window currently appears a more realistic scenario. Bakayoko is open to a transfer and his limited playing time already cost him a significant portion of his potential performance bonuses last season.