Brajan Gruda has completed a season-long loan move to RB Leipzig for the 2026/27 campaign after an impressive spell with the Bundesliga club during the second half of last season.
The 22-year-old enjoyed a productive loan stint, registering three goals and three assists in 14 league appearances as Leipzig secured a fourth-place finish in the Bundesliga and booked their place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.
Brighton sporting director Mike Cave explained the reasoning behind the move, saying Gruda was eager to continue his development in familiar surroundings.
“Brajan enjoyed a positive second half of the season with Leipzig and wanted the chance to remain there for another year. This move gives him the opportunity to play regularly at a high level in an environment where he has already settled well.”
The Germany Under-21 international joined Brighton from Mainz 05 in 2024 in a deal worth around £25 million and has since featured 45 times under head coach Fabian Hurzeler.
Gruda is capable of playing either on the right wing or as an attacking midfielder, but Brighton currently have strong competition in those positions.
Yankuba Minteh remains the club’s first-choice option on the right, while Amario Cozier-Duberry has returned from a successful loan spell at Bolton Wanderers and is pushing for senior opportunities alongside highly rated youngster Harry Howell.
Brighton have also strengthened their attacking options by signing 19-year-old Nigerian winger Zadok Yohanna for approximately £20 million this summer, with the youngster expected to compete for first-team minutes immediately.
In addition, Diego Gomez offers another option in attacking midfield, while Matt O’Riley and Facundo Buonanotte remain at the club for now, although both have been linked with potential moves away before the transfer window closes.
