Aston Villa in talks with Bundesliga giants to sell 19-year-old highly-rated wide man
RB Leipzig Push to Sign Aston Villa Youngster Kosta Nedeljkovic Permanently in Summer Transfer Window
German Bundesliga side RB Leipzig are reportedly making a strong push to sign Kosta Nedeljkovic, the highly regarded 19-year-old Aston Villa right-back, on a permanent deal this summer. According to a new report by respected German journalist Philipp Hinze, the Bundesliga club has opened discussions with Aston Villa and is hopeful of reaching a compromise on the fee required to bring the Serbian defender back to the Red Bull Arena.
Leipzig, who had Nedeljkovic on loan during the second half of the 2024/25 season, have identified the teenager as a long-term solution for their defensive line, particularly at right-back, where they expect some high-profile departures in the coming weeks.
Leipzig Interested in Permanent Transfer Despite Limited Appearances
Although Nedeljkovic only managed 548 minutes across 11 appearances during his short loan spell, Leipzig are said to be impressed with his technical ability, tactical awareness, and potential for growth. The coaching staff reportedly believe he has what it takes to develop into a top-tier defender if given the right environment and consistent playing time.
Leipzig’s current loan agreement with Aston Villa includes a purchase clause set at €10.5 million with an additional €4.5 million in bonuses. However, Die Roten Bullen are attempting to renegotiate the fee structure, preferring to strike a deal below the pre-agreed terms as they weigh their summer spending priorities.
Nedeljkovic’s Journey: From Serbia to the Bundesliga
Born in Smederevo, Serbia, Kosta Nedeljkovic rose through the youth systems of FK Smederevo and Petlić Smederevo, before making a name for himself at Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade, where he was heralded as one of the most promising full-backs in the country. His development caught the eye of Aston Villa, who snapped him up as part of their growing focus on emerging European talent.
Since making the move to England, however, Nedeljkovic has struggled to break into Unai Emery’s first team at Villa Park. His path to regular minutes has been blocked by the presence of experienced options like Matty Cash, and he has had to settle for appearances with the youth squad or loans abroad. His temporary stint in Germany with RB Leipzig marked his first real taste of top-flight football in one of Europe’s elite leagues.
Why Leipzig Are Keen on Nedeljkovic
RB Leipzig have developed a strong reputation for identifying and nurturing young talent, and Nedeljkovic fits the mold of the kind of dynamic, modern full-back they favour. His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch, along with his composure and intelligence, make him a viable long-term project.
The club is reportedly preparing for the possible exit of Lutsharel Geertruida, who has attracted interest from several top European clubs following a series of stellar performances. Should Geertruida leave, Leipzig would need a replacement who can grow into the role—something they believe Nedeljkovic is capable of.
By securing the Serbian’s signature permanently, Leipzig would not only shore up their depth at right-back but also continue their strategy of investing in young, high-ceiling players who can eventually be developed into first-team regulars or sold on at a profit.
Aston Villa’s Stance
For Aston Villa, the situation presents both a financial opportunity and a developmental question. Nedeljkovic, while highly rated, is unlikely to displace established names at the club in the short term. Selling him to Leipzig for a reasonable fee could help balance the books amid ongoing Profit and Sustainability Rule (PSR) concerns and allow Villa to reinvest in more immediate squad needs.
That said, Villa may be reluctant to lower the asking price too much, particularly considering the player’s potential and the fact that he has impressed coaches during his loan stint in Germany.
What’s Next?
Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days as both clubs work toward an agreement. Leipzig are confident that a compromise can be found, especially given their belief in Nedeljkovic’s long-term value. If a deal is struck, it would mark another savvy addition to the Bundesliga side’s youth-driven strategy, and could provide Nedeljkovic with the stability and minutes he needs to flourish.
For Aston Villa, the sale would offer a financial boost and reduce the number of fringe players currently under contract, allowing Unai Emery to streamline his squad ahead of another push for European qualification.
As the summer window progresses, this could prove to be one of the more under-the-radar but highly strategic transfers in the market. All eyes will now be on whether Leipzig’s push to sign Nedeljkovic bears fruit.