Deadline day signing Conrad Harder set to fulfil his Bundesliga dream | OneFootball

It was a transfer completed at the very last second. Just seven seconds before the window closed, it was confirmed that Conrad Harder was an RB Leipzig player. Cheers rang out in the office of managing director for sport Marcel Schäfer as the relief was clear among everyone involved, including the new arrival himself. “I was a little nervous, to be honest. But everyone did an outstanding job and in the end it all worked out,” the 21-year-old said looking back.

For the club's new centre-forward, there was little time to catch his breath after that dramatic evening. Straight afterwards he travelled to link up with Denmark’s U21s, before stepping onto the Red Bulls’ training pitch for the first time on Wednesday. Now he has been officially introduced to the media – with a smile on his face and plenty of anticipation.

Tips from Yussi Poulsen

“The team is fantastic. Everyone has been really welcoming and made it easy for me to settle in. It feels really good to be here,” said the forward. He has already formed some close connections – including with Antonio Nusa and Johan Bakayoko. “We have a few things in common and know some of the same players from before, which of course helps.”

Harder has also built a special bond with RBL icon Yussuf Poulsen. He spoke at length with his fellow Dane after the move: “We talked a lot – he gave me tips about the city and spoke very positively about the club.”

Debut against Mainz?

His decision to come to Leipzig had already been taking shape for some time. “I always wanted to play in the Bundesliga, and RB Leipzig was the club I wanted most. I’ve been following the team for a long time – we share the same ambitions.”

When asked about his readiness for the upcoming game against Mainz, Harder didn’t hesitate: “Of course I’m ready. I always give 100% – and that often really annoys opponents. Naturally, I still want to keep developing, especially in my decision-making.”

His big Idol

The striker already has some special memories of the Red Bull Arena. “My first ever Champions League start came here with Sporting. That was a special moment for me, and it was also in Leipzig that I had my first press conference. Maybe that played a part in convincing me,” he said with a grin.

The new signing also spoke openly about his footballing role model: “As a child I looked up to Cristiano Ronaldo.” His drive to keep working on himself is something he has taken from his idol.

Whether he makes his debut against Mainz will be revealed on Saturday afternoon. We’d certainly be delighted!

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