RB Leipzig are navigating one of the most turbulent summers in their history, defined by a record-breaking sale and a painful recruitment setback that leaves new head coach Martin Demichelis still searching for a centre-forward. Yan Diomande's move to Real Madrid, confirmed on August 6, brought Leipzig up to €140 million and set a club record for an outgoing transfer, with the base fee of €125 million matching the third-highest in Bundesliga history. The 19-year-old had scored 13 goals and contributed 10 assists in 36 appearances last season, and his departure leaves a significant gap on the wing.

The club moved quickly to address their striker position, with Fisnik Asllani of Hoffenheim identified as the priority target. A deal worth €25 million appeared complete, with the Kosovo international travelling to Leipzig's Austrian training camp for his medical. That move collapsed on August 7 when Leipzig pulled out after raising medical concerns, leaving them without their top attacking target just days before the new season. Hoffenheim confirmed the breakdown in an official statement, insisting Asllani remains fit and will return to training.

There are further concerns in the squad. Reports from Gazzetta dello Sport link Norwegian winger Antonio Nusa with a €60 million move to AS Roma, which would strip Leipzig of a second wide attacker. Meanwhile, Christoph Baumgartner is expected to miss matches until late October with a thigh injury, and new signing Rocco Reitz is working through an individual fitness programme after a prolonged illness. Leipzig face Leeds United in a friendly on August 8 before the Bundesliga season begins, with Demichelis still needing to reinforce his attack.