The Leipziger Volkszeitung and later Sky Germany both report that RB Leipzig are interested in bringing former Heidenheim midfielder Jan-Niklas Beste, back to the Bundesliga.
Leipzig are struggling due to a large amount of injuries, which has affected their performance on the pitch. However, they are currently fourth in the Bundesliga, their 5-1 loss to Bayern Munich on the final matchday before the winter break showed their current level.
This has meant that they will likely venture into the transfer market in the winter to boost their squad depth. Benfica’s Jan-Niklas Beste is said to be an option. Leipzig already contacted the 25-year-old before Christmas about a possible move with a loan with an option to buy at the end of the season the likely route to be taken. The Saxony side also faces competition from Crystal Palace.
Beste has struggled in Portugal since heading south in the summer for €8m. The 25 year old was a target for Roger Schmidt, but the former Bayer Leverkusen head coach has now left Benfica, resulting in Beste playing a bit part role in Lisbon. However, despite this lack of playing time, the 25 year old has scored twice and assisted twice in 19 appearances.
Although he has only recently returned from injury, Beste would be a logical backup for David Raum as the 25-year-old is versatile enough that he can not only play as a left-midfielder but also at left-back, like Raum he also possesses a great dead-ball ability. This would then allow Antonio Nusa to play further forward and make use of his qualities.
GGFN | Jack Meenan
