Kosta Nedeljković (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Serbian full-back Kosta Nedeljković has impressed RB Leipzig despite limited game time, with the club now considering activating his €14.5 million purchase option from Aston Villa.
RB Leipzig coach Marco Rose has hinted that the club is likely to trigger the buyout clause for Kosta Nedeljković, who arrived on loan from Aston Villa in January. Despite playing just 39 minutes, the young right-back has already made a strong impression.
"He gives Leipzig exactly what we need in this team. He’s solid, technically strong, works hard, and fights for every ball. He has great pace and potential. I believe I can give him a chance to start," said Rose when asked about the future of the Serbian defender.
When pressed about a permanent transfer, Rose confirmed that Leipzig is undergoing a long-term squad transition: "We’re in the middle of a transformation that could last two years. Kosta is part of it—he’s going to be a good player."
If Leipzig decides to buy the 20-year-old, they will need to pay Aston Villa €14.5 million. This would be a profitable deal for the Premier League side, which originally signed him from Red Star Belgrade for €7.6 million.
Further indicating that Nedeljković is not in Villa’s long-term plans, the Birmingham-based club has already signed Andrés García from Levante as a replacement.