RB Leipzig Eye Robert Andrich as Bayer Leverkusen Midfielder Loses His Place

RB Leipzig are keeping tabs on Robert Andrich as the midfielder's situation at Bayer Leverkusen becomes increasingly uncertain.

According to Sky Sport Germany, Die Roten Bullen are among the clubs interested in the Germany international and have identified his profile as a possible solution for their midfield. There has been no direct approach from Leipzig yet, but both Leverkusen and Andrich are aware of the interest, leaving the possibility of a late move before the transfer window closes.

For Leipzig, the timing is notable.

The club has been looking for another option in central midfield throughout the summer, with Arthur Vermeeren yet to fully establish himself as the long-term No. 6, and the pursuit of young German midfielder Kennet Eichhorn ending with the teenager choosing Bayer Leverkusen. Marc Casadó has also emerged as another name RBL have explored in recent days.

Andrich would offer something very different from either player.

At 31, he would arrive with almost 200 competitive appearances for Leverkusen behind him, extensive Bundesliga experience and 19 Germany caps. He was also an important part of the side that won the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal in 2023/24, and his ability to operate as both a defensive midfielder and centre-back would give Martín Demichelis considerable flexibility.

That versatility may be particularly attractive to Leipzig.

Demichelis wants his midfield to be aggressive without the ball and capable of covering large areas when the team pushes forward. Andrich's strength in duels, defensive awareness and willingness to play forward quickly fit that profile. He is not a player who needs to dominate possession to influence a game; he can provide the physical and tactical balance that allows more creative players to operate ahead of him.

The irony is that Leverkusen now appear ready to move in the opposite direction.

Andrich was named captain following Lukas Hradecky's departure last season, but Carles Martínez has since removed him from the leadership group and made Edmond Tapsoba the new captain. Martínez has also acknowledged that Andrich is currently expected to have more of a secondary role in midfield.

The club is therefore no longer treating him as untouchable.

Andrich's contract runs until June 2028, giving Leverkusen control over the situation, but that does not necessarily mean they will stand in his way. The midfielder had previously said that he would consider a move if the club or coach no longer viewed him as an important player. That moment now appears to have arrived.

For Leipzig, the opportunity is straightforward: acquire an experienced Bundesliga midfielder who knows exactly what is required at the highest level, while also adding another leader to a squad undergoing significant change.

But there is still a way to go. Leipzig have not approached Leverkusen yet. Andrich knows they are interested. With the deadline approaching, this is one to watch.