RB Leipzig Make Move for Shakhtar Donetsk’s Marlon Gomes After Europa League Performance
RB Leipzig has set its sights on Marlon Gomes, the 21-year-old Brazilian attacking midfielder currently playing for Shakhtar Donetsk. The German club submitted an initial offer for the player following his recent appearance in the Europa League qualifiers, but the bid was rejected, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Leipzig Expected to Return With Improved Offer
Despite the rejection, Leipzig remains determined. Behind-the-scenes negotiations are expected to continue, with a second bid likely in the coming days. The Bundesliga club views Marlon as a promising reinforcement for its attacking midfield, especially after his performances in European and domestic competitions last season.
Former Vasco Star Impressing in Ukraine
A Vasco da Gama academy product, Marlon Gomes joined Shakhtar in January 2024 in a deal worth €12 million (R$77 million at current exchange rates). Although his transfer was only finalized earlier this year, he made an immediate impact, scoring four goals and providing an assist in just nine appearances during the latter half of the 2023/2024 season.
In the current campaign, Marlon has already featured once and is expected to play a larger role, having tallied 30 appearances across the Ukrainian Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cup last season, with four goals and two assists.
Player and Club Yet to Make Final Decision
Valued at €10 million by Transfermarkt, the young Brazilian now faces a key decision about his future. Shakhtar is reportedly weighing its options, while Leipzig prepares a new proposal. Marlon himself has not yet made a public statement on whether he prefers to remain in Ukraine or make the move to Germany.
The transfer saga unfolds as Shakhtar prepares for the next round of European competition, having advanced past Ilves on Thursday (17) following a goalless draw in their Europa League qualifier.
