Brighton & Hove Albion’s midfielder Brajan Gruda is set to leave the club permanently after RB Leipzig activate a mandatory buy-out clause this season. The 22-year-old, who joined the Seagulls for €31.5m in January 2024, will see his second loan spell at Leipzig converted into a permanent transfer for between €25-30m, depending on his competitive appearances.
What happened?
According to journalist Phillipp Hinze, Brighton and Leipzig have agreed on a deal that includes a near-certain purchase obligation. The clause is triggered by a very small number of competitive appearances, which Leipzig expect to meet this season. Brighton, who had budgeted for a permanent exit this summer, will recover much of their initial €31.5m investment after Gruda’s unsuccessful spell at the Amex.
Gruda first joined Leipzig on loan in January 2025 and impressed enough to warrant a second loan this summer. The Bundesliga side had not budgeted for a permanent transfer but structured the deal to include a realistic buy-out clause, allowing them to account for it without immediate financial strain.
Why it matters for Brighton & Hove Albion
The Seagulls have struggled to integrate Gruda since his €31.5m arrival in January 2024. With just 52 goals scored and 46 conceded this season, Brighton sit 8th in the Premier League on 53 points, 32 behind leaders Arsenal. A permanent exit for Gruda frees up funds and clears a squad spot ahead of the new campaign.
Leipzig, meanwhile, get a ready-made midfielder without the upfront cost. The Bundesliga side’s accounts reflect the loan-plus-obligation structure, avoiding a sudden €25-30m hit. Gruda’s return also aligns with Leipzig’s squad plans, as reported by Hinze.
What comes next?
The transfer is in its final stages, with both clubs and the player in full agreement. Brighton will wrap up the deal by the end of the month, ending Gruda’s two-year stay in England. The Seagulls, currently on a recent run of LLWLW, will now focus on their summer rebuild.
League standing: 8th in Premier League, 53 pts, 14W-11D-13L from 38 games, recent form LLWLW.
