Villarreal CF have agreed terms with RB Leipzig to sign 36-year-old Hungarian goalkeeper Péter Gulácsi for the 2026/27 season. The Submarino are finalizing a deal for the veteran shot-stopper, whose contract runs until June 2027, according to Fabrizio Romano and confirmed by Mediterráneo on Thursday. The agreement could be completed this Friday or over the weekend, pending finalization of financial terms.
Why does Villarreal CF want Gulácsi?
Villarreal CF are reshaping their goalkeeper situation this summer transfer window. The club needs an experienced keeper for European competitions to back Luiz Júnior, their strategic choice for the yellow goal. Gulácsi fits the bill: 362 official matches for Leipzig, Champions League experience, and a career in one of Europe’s toughest leagues.
The Hungarian’s contract expires next June, making his exit affordable. Leipzig paid around three million euros in 2015 to sign him from Red Bull Salzburg, and he has since become a club legend, rising from the second division to Bundesliga regular and European competitor.
How does this impact Luiz Júnior?
Gulácsi’s arrival doesn’t change Villarreal CF’s plan for Luiz Júnior, the 23-year-old Brazilian goalkeeper. The club sees him as their first-choice keeper for the new season, especially with back-to-back Champions League campaigns. The veteran will add competition and security in high-pressure games.
Villarreal want to surround Luiz Júnior with experience. Gulácsi, with eleven seasons at Leipzig and European pedigree, matches that need. His signing strengthens the goalkeeping ranks without shifting focus from the Brazilian.
What else is happening at Villarreal CF’s goalkeeping department?
The reshuffle began with Diego Conde’s move to Real Betis on loan for the season, with a six-million-euro optional buy clause. The team, currently 20th in La Liga with zero points, must shore up its goalkeeping ahead of a tough campaign.
