Leipzig talent for Austria Wien

Eric Martel joins FK Austria Wien with immediate effect. The Leipzig youngster comes on loan and is expected to bring stability to the defense. Both clubs have agreed not to disclose the contents of the contract.

The 18-year-old midfielder is on loan from RB Leipzig until the summer of 2022 and will immediately join the training with the first team.

General Manager Sport Peter Stöger: "We have been watching Eric for some time, so we are even more pleased that we now had the opportunity to get him. It was also important to us that we have the perspective of being able to plan with him beyond this year. He is a young player with a lot of potential, can gain playing experience with us and fits the framework in which we are currently operating."

Martel has played for Leipzig's youth team since 2017, signing his first professional contract with the German Bundesliga club in the summer. Just before Christmas, he was substituted for the professional team by coach Julian Nagelsmann in the DFB Cup, making his first minutes in a 3-0 win at Augsburg.

In Vienna, he should get more appearances. Stöger: "We spoke on the phone several times and showed him the opportunities he has with us if he uses this platform for himself. He knows he has to fight for his spot in the team , but because of his personality and his duel ability, he definitely has what it takes to continue on his path."

Eric Martel: "I am very happy to be at Austria Wien and I am already looking forward to the task in the Bundesliga. I now want to get to know everyone as quickly as possible and try to contribute to the success of the club.”