TSG Hoffenheim are facing the loss of two strikers. Fisnik Asllani, 23, is close to joining RB Leipzig. The forward missed Hoffenheim’s opening pre-season friendly against SGV Freiberg to avoid any injury risk - a clear sign of an impending deal. After scoring 18 goals in 33 Bundesliga games last season, the Kraichgau club could receive around €30 million for his transfer. Leipzig would first need to free up squad space, as reported by Sky and the n-tv transfer ticker.
What happened?
Hoffenheim’s attack is set for a major shake-up. Asllani, who joined from Partizan Belgrade in summer 2023, has already indicated his desire to leave. His absence in the friendly against Freiberg suggests an agreement is in motion. RB Leipzig lead the race for his signature but must first create squad space - likely through sales or loans.
Meanwhile, Gift Orban is on the verge of a move to Turkey. The Hungarian striker, who arrived from Basel in January 2025, will join Turkish Süper Lig newcomer Amed SK on a one-year loan. The club will pay a €1 million loan fee and secure a €4 million option-to-buy clause that becomes mandatory under certain conditions. A medical check is scheduled for next week once his entry is confirmed.
Why it matters for Hoffenheim
For Hoffenheim, the double departure is a significant blow. Asllani was their top scorer last season with 18 goals and a key player. His exit would leave a major void in attack. Yet the club is also showing it can monetize young talent even in tough times - Amed’s option is structured to become automatic if conditions are met.
The Kraichgau side, currently 5th in the Bundesliga with zero points, have little time to react. The season kicks off in days, and without reinforcements, a poor start looms. Manager Pellegrino Matarazzo must now rebuild the attack - whether through internal options or new signings.
What’s next?
Asllani’s move to Leipzig could be finalized within days. Leipzig has shown interest but must first free up space. If completed, they’d land an established Bundesliga scorer - though at a steep €30 million price tag.
Orban, meanwhile, will play in Turkey for now. If Amed triggers the buy clause, Hoffenheim may lose him long-term. For the Hungarian striker, it’s a chance to prove himself in a new league. For Hoffenheim, the task now is to fill the gaps - through new signings or youth promotion.
The Kraichgau side has scored zero goals and conceded zero so far this season. The coming weeks will reveal whether the club can recover from these exits or needs further changes.
