RB Leipzig on Friday confirmed the acquisition of Brazilian forward Romulo Cardoso from Turkish club Goztepe as a replacement for Benjamin Sesko, who recently completed a transfer to Manchester United.
The 23-year-old striker has committed to Leipzig on a contract running until 2030, with the transfer reportedly valued at €25 million ($29.2 million), inclusive of performance-related bonuses.
The move comes as a necessary reinforcement for Leipzig following Sesko’s high-profile switch to United, with the 22-year-old Slovenian said to have commanded a fee of €85 million.
Romulo arrives after an impressive campaign in Turkey, where he netted 13 goals and contributed nine assists across 29 league appearances.
Last season proved challenging for Leipzig, who finished in seventh place, missing out on European competition for the first time since their arrival in Germany’s top flight. This has prompted a squad overhaul during Jurgen Klopp’s inaugural off-season in his role as Red Bull’s global head of football.
The club has brought in a number of promising young talents ahead of the Bundesliga’s return next weekend, including winger Johan Bakayoko and midfielder Arthur Vermeeren. They also begin the season under new leadership with manager Ole Werner at the helm.
What you should know
Romulo Cardoso is a 23-year-old Brazilian striker known for his goal-scoring ability and creative playmaking. His arrival at RB Leipzig follows an impressive stint at Goztepe, where he recorded 13 goals and nine assists last season.
He joins as part of a broader rebuild under Ole Werner, with Leipzig aiming to bounce back after missing out on European football.
