RB Leipzig has successfully signed Danish international striker Conrad Harder from Sporting Lisbon for 25 million euros, plus 2.5 million in performance-related payments. Beating Chelsea to the 20-year-old’s signature, Harder, who previously played for Nordsjaelland and Sporting, has signed a five-year contract. This move is a significant boost for RB Leipzig, while Sporting Lisbon faces another major loss, having already sold Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal.
In a significant coup for the Bundesliga side, RB Leipzig has successfully secured the signing of Danish international striker Conrad Harder from Sporting Lisbon. The deal, finalized on September 1, 2025, sees the German club pay an initial fee of 25 million euros, with an additional 2.5 million euros contingent on performance-related achievements. This move represents a major triumph for RB Leipzig, as they reportedly edged out Chelsea in the race for the highly sought-after 20-year-old's signature.
Conrad Harder's journey to the top echelons of European football began in his native Denmark, where he honed his skills at Nordsjaelland. His impressive performances caught the eye of Sporting Lisbon, who acquired his services in 2024 for a transfer fee of approximately 19 million euros. During his time in Portugal, Harder quickly established himself as a promising talent, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess and technical abilities.
Chelsea's pursuit of Harder had been well-documented, with the London club engaged in negotiations with Sporting Lisbon for several days. A transfer to Stamford Bridge appeared imminent, with reports suggesting that an announcement was expected. However, in a surprising turn of events, the deal fell through as Harder ultimately opted to continue his career in Germany with RB Leipzig.
The allure of RB Leipzig, with its reputation for developing young talent and its attractive style of play, proved to be a decisive factor in Harder's decision. The club's commitment to providing opportunities for emerging stars resonated with the young striker, who believes that Leipzig offers the ideal environment for him to reach his full potential.
Harder has reportedly agreed to a five-year contract with RB Leipzig, committing his future to the club until 2030. His departure from Sporting Lisbon marks the end of a relatively short but eventful spell in Portugal, where he spent just one year. Despite his limited time at the club, Harder made a positive impression, displaying his qualities in both domestic and European competitions.
The loss of Harder represents a significant blow to Sporting Lisbon, who have already seen another key player, Viktor Gyokeres, depart for Arsenal this summer. With Gyokeres gone and Harder now heading to Germany, Sporting are left with a void in their attacking options as the club will need to seek a replacement before the close of the transfer window.
Prior to his departure, Harder had already featured in four matches for Sporting this season, scoring one goal in the 2025-26 campaign. His early season form highlighted his importance to the team, making his exit all the more disappointing for the Portuguese side.
RB Leipzig's acquisition of Conrad Harder is a clear statement of intent, signaling their ambition to compete at the highest level. The club has a proven track record of identifying and nurturing young talent, and Harder fits perfectly into their recruitment strategy. His arrival will undoubtedly bolster their attacking options and add a new dimension to their play.
With his pace, skill, and eye for goal, Harder has the potential to become a key player for RB Leipzig in the years to come. The club's fans will be eagerly anticipating his debut and will be hoping to see him replicate his impressive performances from his time at Nordsjaelland and Sporting Lisbon.
This transfer marks a significant moment in Conrad Harder's career, as he embarks on a new chapter in the Bundesliga. The challenges and opportunities that await him at RB Leipzig are immense, and he will be determined to make the most of this exciting new adventure. His progress will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike, as he aims to establish himself as one of the brightest young talents in European football.