Mainz’s Nadiem Amiri remains keen to transfer to RB Leipzig | OneFootball

Sport Bild reports that Nadiem Amiri has reached a basic agreement with RB Leipzig over a potential move from Mainz 05. The 13-times-capped international and German World Cup participant still fancies a move to Saxony. Talks between the two Bundesliga clubs are already underway, though a final deal is not expected imminently.

Leipzig’s interest in Amiri was first reported in March 2025 following the midfielder’s impressive resurgence in Mainz. The 29-year-old subsequently remained with the Rheinhessen after sporting CEO Christian Heidel publicly ruled out a summer sale.

Leipzig must first reduce squad size

The deal nevertheless remains dependent on departures from Leipzig’s current 35-man-squad. Sport Bild maintains that club officials wish to move several players on before completing additional summer signings.

Eljif Elmas is among the candidates expected to leave. The North Macedonian midfielder has struggled to establish himself since joining Leipzig from Napoli and could help create both squad space and financial flexibility.

Only after Leipzig have reduced their personnel could the club finalize Amiri’s arrival. The 29-year-old thus remains a serious candidate, but the timing of the transfer depends more on outgoing business than Leipzig’s midfield planning.

Amiri would offer Leipzig Bundesliga experience, technical quality and leadership. His ability to operate as a deep-lying playmaker or more advanced midfielder could make him a useful addition once the necessary departures have been completed.

GGFN | Peter Weis