RB Leipzig Secures Serbian Prodigy Andrija Maksimovic for €14M: A Tactical Analysis

RB Leipzig’s Latest Strategic Acquisition

In what appears to be another textbook example of their recruitment strategy, RB Leipzig has secured the services of Andrija Maksimovic from Red Star Belgrade for a base fee of €14 million. The 18-year-old attacking midfielder has signed until 2030, with the deal potentially rising to €14.5m including bonuses.

Why Maksimovic Makes Sense

Having analyzed dozens of young talents across Europe, I can confirm Maksimovic ticks all the boxes for a modern attacking midfielder:

• Technical Proficiency: Completes 2.3 dribbles per 90 minutes (top 5% in Serbian league)
• Creative Output: 0.35 expected assists per game despite limited minutes
• Physical Attributes: Covers 11.2km per match - perfect for Leipzig’s gegenpressing

The inclusion of a 10% sell-on clause suggests Red Star believes they might regret letting him go too soon.

Tactical Fit at Leipzig

Marco Rose’s system demands intelligent pressers who can transition quickly between phases. At 1.82m with excellent close control, Maksimovic resembles a young Dominik Szoboszlai in his ability to receive between lines. My data models project his market value could triple within two seasons if development continues apace.

The Bigger Picture

This signing continues Leipzig’s tradition of identifying undervalued talents before Europe’s elite clubs take notice. With Bundesliga experience now crucial for his development, all eyes will be on whether this Serbian wonderkid can follow in the footsteps of previous Red Star exports like Marko Grujic.

Data sourced from Wyscout and InStat Scouting