RB Leipzig sign Baumgartner from Hoffenheim €27M

RB Leipzig have signed Austrian international Christoph Baumgartner from Hoffenheim for 27 million euros ($29 million), the German Cup holders announced on Friday. 

The 23-year-old attacking midfielder -- who signed a contract taking him up to 2028 -- becomes the club's second most expensive signing after Germany winger David Raum who arrived in 2022, also from Hoffenheim.

"I really wanted to go to a club which can win titles," Baumgartner said in a statement on Friday. 

"The team has shown that with two German Cups in a row. I'm also really looking forward to the Champions League."

Leipzig sporting director Max Eberl said Baumgartner was "one of our absolute dream players". 

Baumgartner, who has scored eight goals in 27 international appearances, fills a gap for Leipzig.

They were in need of a new midfielder after fellow Austrian Konrad Laimer made the move to champions Bayern Munich on a free earlier in June.