Eljif Elmas Joins Leipzig in January

by Anthony J. Merced

RB Leipzig have bolstered their midfield with the signing of 24 year-old Eljif Elmas from Napoli. Macedonian agreed to a four year deal with the East German club, taking him through the 2028 season.

Elmas made his debut professionally at the age of 16 in his home country before moving to the Turkish league with Fenerbahce in 2017. He made 45 appearances, netting five goals in a little under two years with the club. From there he moved to Napoli under the tutelage of Carlo Ancelotti in 2019. In his time there he scored 19 goals and notched 11 assists, lifting the Serie A championship along the way last season.

"Moving to the Bundesliga and joining RB Leipzig is the stuff of dreams," said Elmas. "The club is known for the special football they play. They like gengenpressing, play with pace and have a strong attack. All of that suits me down to the ground."

Elmas will join a midfield in need of offense after an early season injury to Dani Olmo. He'll also play along veterans in the position such as Kevin Kampl and Xavr Schlager. Elmas joins the team as club legend Emil Forsberg departs for New York Red Bulls in January.

"We've been monitoring Elijf for a while because he's an exciting prospect," said Sporting Director Rouven Schroder. "He looks like the full package and will be a perfect fit for the team personality-wise. He'll be able to help the team straightaway with his quality."

Leipzig are currently in the midst of their Bundesliga winter break and will return to action on January 13th against Eintracht Frankfurt.

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