RB Leipzig have announced that they have completed the signing of Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder Rocco Reitz.
The 23-year-old will join the club in the summer and sign a contract until 2031, which does not include a release clause. Sky Germany reports that Reitz will move for €21m, but the deal does include bonuses and other clauses that can see it rise to €23m.
On signing the midfielder, Leipzig managing director of sport Marcel Schäfer said:
“Rocco Reitz was our absolute top target for the central midfield. Therefore, we are delighted that the transfer has gone through and that our long-term efforts have paid off. The consistently transparent and fair negotiations with all parties involved are certainly worth highlighting.
We are acquiring an incredibly versatile player who will play a key role as a link between defense and attack, strengthening our team. In addition to many RB-typical attributes such as sprints, high-intensity runs, distance covered, and speed – in which Rocco is among the top players in the league – he also possesses excellent vision and control of the game, the right mentality, and, despite his young age, strong leadership qualities.
We see further potential for development , which we intend to utilize together in the coming years to achieve Rocco’s and our goals!”
Although Gladbach have lost their captain and one of their mainstays in the midfield, considering his performances this season, along with the rest of the team, die Fohlen have received €21m, which can be reinvested in the squad in the summer.
While it is poor that the move has materialised at a poor time for Gladbach, as they currently find themselves in a relegation battle, and on Saturday they play the Rhein Derby versus 1.FC Köln. Add to this, taking the next step in your career is fine, but considering you are the captain and leaving your boyhood club for Leipzig, it will leave a sour taste in the mouth.
For Leipzig, it is suggested that Reitz will replace the departing Xaver Schlager. However, looking at the midfield three that Ole Werner usually deploys, Reitz is unlikely to start, as considering form and when everyone is fit, the midfield would be Nicolas Seiwald, Christoph Baumgartner and Assan Ouedraogo.
