The future of Aston Villa`s loaned player, Kosta Nedeljkovic, at RB Leipzig this summer hinges on the decision of the German club`s soon-to-be-appointed new head coach regarding the possibility of activating his purchase option.
Aston Villa acquired the promising young full-back from Serbian side Red Star Belgrade for €9.5 million during the 2024 winter transfer window. He arrived at Villa Park with a strong reputation.
While Unai Emery provided Nedeljkovic with opportunities earlier in the previous season, he quickly fell down the squad hierarchy.
Consequently, in the winter window, he was sent on loan to Bundesliga club RB Leipzig for the remainder of the campaign. This loan agreement included an option for Leipzig to make the move permanent.
RB Leipzig possesses a purchase option valued at €10.5 million to secure Nedeljkovic`s services permanently, and reports suggest they are very impressed with the player.
However, Leipzig`s failure to qualify for next season`s Champions League, and the associated loss of revenue, has led them to delay their decision on the purchase option.
According to German broadcaster Sky Deutschland, there is still a possibility that Leipzig could sign the Aston Villa loanee permanently.
The Bundesliga side is currently without a head coach, as they are in the process of appointing someone for the future, and the incoming manager is expected to have significant influence over important decisions like player transfers.
For Aston Villa, securing a substantial fee from the sale of the Serbian defender could provide a valuable financial boost, particularly after they also missed out on Champions League football.
With existing full-back options at Villa Park, such as Andres Garcia and Matty Cash, Nedeljkovic would face considerable competition for playing time if he were to return to the club.
Unai Emery`s team will be closely monitoring the situation regarding the managerial appointment and the subsequent decision at the German club concerning their loaned player.
RB Leipzig has until later this month to activate the purchase clause for the Serbian defender.
