Brighton loanee Brajan Gruda hails RB Leipzig loan as perfect fit

Brighton midfielder Brajan Gruda has spoken of his delight after completing a surprise loan move to RB Leipzig, insisting the Bundesliga club are a “perfect fit” for his playing style.

The 21-year-old has returned to Germany for the remainder of the season after finding opportunities limited under Fabian Hürzeler at Brighton. The move has caught many off guard in both England and Germany, but Gruda revealed Leipzig had long been a destination he had hoped to reach.

RB Leipzig were keen on Gruda even before his switch to the Premier League last season, with regular contact maintained between the player and the Bundesliga side.

Brajan Gruda admitted the decision became straightforward once the chance of a winter loan emerged.

“I really wanted to join RB Leipzig as soon as it became clear that a winter transfer was possible for me,” Gruda said. “On the one hand, RBL is an absolute top club in Germany, and on the other hand, their playing style suits me perfectly.”

Gruda added that Leipzig’s long-standing interest played a key role in convincing him the move was right.

“There has been regular contact between RB Leipzig and me over the years. That gives me a good feeling and shows that the club and the management believe in me.”

Gruda joins a Leipzig side currently fifth in the Bundesliga, three points outside the Champions League places after a weekend defeat to Mainz. The attacking midfielder will wear the No.10 shirt and work under head coach Ole Werner, who at 37 is among the league’s younger managers.

“I feel in top shape,” Gruda continued. “I already know many of my new team-mates from the national team and the Bundesliga and I want to help take RB Leipzig back into Europe.”

He also made a point of thanking Brighton, adding: “Of course, I wish Albion every success for the rest of the season.”

Sporting director Marcel Schäfer believes Gruda can make an immediate contribution.

“He has good speed, is technically skilled and creative, and also has strong ball control,” Schäfer said. “With his attitude, commitment and physicality, he fits our style defensively as well. He has played regularly in the Premier League, so he is fit and will hardly need any time to settle in.”

Gruda is expected to be available for selection quickly as Leipzig push to close the gap on the Champions League places in the coming weeks. For Brighton, the loan offers a chance for the midfielder to gain consistent minutes before reassessing his long-term role at the Amex Stadium this summer.