Hannes Wolf: RB Leipzig's latest discovery from Red Bull Salzburg
RB Leipzig have enjoyed unprecedented success with their strategy of scouting and signing talented young players, and with the confirmed arrival of Hannes Wolf from Red Bull Salzburg in the summer, they appear to have struck gold once again.
Following on from the arrival of Amadou Haidara – also from Salzburg – Leipzig have confirmed the capture of Wolf for the start of the 2019/20 season. bundesliga.com has the lowdown on the club's latest addition.
A member of Salzburg's eye-catching UEFA Youth League-winning team in 2017, Wolf has long since ranked high on the wishlist of Leipzig's director of sport and current coach Ralf Rangnick. "Hannes caught our attention due to his prominent development, which is reflected in his numerous national and international outings, in spite of his young age," Rangnick said.
"His strengths make him a versatile option across the attacking midfield. I'm delighted he's decided to take the next step in his career with us here."
Indeed, Leipzig have beaten off fierce competition for the signing of a player they were able to take a first-hand look at in their UEFA Europa League meetings this season. "He stole the show with Haidara in the Europa League," quipped Rangnick, who has subsequently snapped up both stars of the Austrian side.
While Haidara is more of a central midfielder, with a less pronounced attacking intent and more of a holding ability, Wolf has shone in a support role further forward in the Austrian Bundesliga this season, scoring five goals and setting up a further nine in 23 competitive outings.
He has also underlined his versatility by playing on either wing, and brings this two-footed dimension, irrepressible pace and close control to a team already brimming with talented, skilful players.
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Current Hoffenheim coach Julian Nagelsmann, who takes over the reins from Rangnick next season, will be rubbing his hands with glee at the prospect of the players he will inherit in the summer, while for 19-year-old Wolf, a memorable precocious chapter closes with a promising new one opening.
"I just felt it was time to take the next step this summer," Wolf said. "I will never forget my time in Salzburg – I had five great years here."
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