In a move signaling mutual satisfaction and confidence, RB Leipzig has successfully negotiated an extension of Kosta Nedeljković`s loan agreement with English Premier League side Aston Villa. The young Serbian defender, who initially arrived in Germany for a six-month stint, is now set to remain at the Red Bull Arena for the entirety of the 2025/26 Bundesliga campaign.
Nedeljković, aged 19, joined Leipzig in February 2025 and quickly integrated into the squad. During his initial period, he featured in 10 Bundesliga matches, gaining valuable top-flight experience, and also made an appearance in the DFB Cup semi-final.
The decision to extend the loan underscores Leipzig`s belief in the right-back`s potential. Sporting director Marcel Schäfer commented on Nedeljković`s positive impact since his arrival. He highlighted the player`s swift adaptation and performance levels as key factors behind the desire to keep him on board for another season, viewing his mindset and playing style as an excellent match for Leipzig`s tactical approach.
From the player`s perspective, the feeling is clearly reciprocal. Nedeljković expressed his pleasure at the prospect of continuing his journey in the Leipzig shirt. He noted the strong sense of trust and belonging he felt from the club from day one, emphasizing that his time there has been instrumental in his development. Remaining at Leipzig, he stated, provides significant motivation to contribute to the team`s objectives in the upcoming season.
Before his move to Leipzig, Nedeljković had already begun to make his mark at Aston Villa, where he made 10 competitive appearances after joining from Red Star Belgrade in 2024. He also holds seven senior international caps for the Serbian national team, further indicating his burgeoning talent on a larger stage.
For RB Leipzig, securing Nedeljković`s services for another year provides stability in their defensive ranks as they prepare for the new season under head coach Ole Werner. Their campaign is set to kick off with a DFB Cup first-round tie away against Sandhausen, followed by a demanding Bundesliga opener against reigning champions Bayern Munich the subsequent Friday. Extending the loan of a player who has already proven capable within the system appears a pragmatic piece of business as they aim to compete domestically.
This extended loan agreement serves as a classic example of modern football`s developmental pathways, offering a promising young player significant game time in a competitive league while allowing his parent club to monitor his progress from afar. Both clubs and the player will be hoping this continued arrangement yields further growth and success on the pitch.
