RB Leipzig have abruptly blocked Willi Orbán’s proposed transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Diriyah at the final stage, forcing the 33-year-old defender to remain at the Bundesliga club. Managing Director for Sport Marcel Schäfer reportedly made the decision to pull the plug late in the process, cancelling a medical examination that had been scheduled for Monday morning.
The collapse comes as a direct response to a defensive injury crisis. Abdoul Koné’s recent setback left the squad short of options at centre-back, prompting Leipzig to prioritise experience and depth over potential transfer revenue. The sudden reversal highlights how quickly recruitment strategies can shift when first-team resources are stretched.
The Saudi deal falls through
Orbán had appeared set for a lucrative switch to the Middle East. He was reportedly in line to earn €15 million over a two-year contract with Al-Diriyah, with negotiations reaching an advanced stage over the weekend. Preparations were so far along that a doctor from the Saudi club had already travelled to Leipzig to oversee the medical checks.
Following the club’s change of stance, however, the medical was cancelled and the physician will now return to Saudi Arabia without examining the player. The last-minute U-turn leaves Al-Diriyah searching for alternative defensive targets while Orbán’s immediate future is secured in Germany.
European duties secured
Orbán remains under contract with Leipzig until 2027 and is now expected to feature heavily under manager Martin Demichelis. With the Champions League campaign approaching, the Hungarian international’s presence provides vital cover in central defence, particularly given Koné’s absence.
The decision ensures Leipzig retain an experienced campaigner for their European and domestic challenges, though it denies Orbán a substantial financial package in Saudi Arabia. The veteran will instead continue competing at the highest level in Germany, with his role likely to expand as the club competes on multiple fronts this season.