Celta Vigo in talks to sign Guinea’s Ilaix Moriba permanently from RB Leipzig

With just three matches left in the La Liga season, the future of Guinean international Ilaix Moriba has become a central topic of discussion at Celta Vigo, where the 22-year-old midfielder has impressed during his loan spell from German side RB Leipzig.

Moriba has enjoyed a resurgence in form since arriving in Galicia, delivering a series of strong performances that have reinvigorated his career and strengthened Celta’s midfield during a tense relegation fight. His development has not gone unnoticed by the club’s management, who are keen to make his stay permanent.

Negotiations between Celta Vigo, RB Leipzig, and the player’s representatives are already underway. Moriba’s father, Mamady Kourouma, confirmed the status of discussions in a recent interview with Africafoot, stating that all parties are aligned in their desire to see the midfielder remain in Spain beyond the current campaign.

“We are currently in the midst of negotiations,” Kourouma revealed. “Everyone’s wish—whether it’s Ilaix, his family, or the Celta management—is for him to stay in Vigo. He feels good here, plays regularly, and enjoys himself on the pitch.

His contract with Leipzig runs until 2026, but we hope to reach an agreement so that he can continue his adventure here for at least one more season.”

Moriba, a product of FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, moved to RB Leipzig in 2021 in a high-profile transfer. However, the midfielder struggled to settle in the Bundesliga and was sent out on loan in search of consistent game time.

His time at Celta appears to have provided the environment he needs to regain confidence and form.

The midfielder has not only delivered solid defensive performances but also made his mark on the scoresheet, including a standout goal in a recent victory that further underscored his growing influence on the team.

His ability to operate in multiple midfield roles and adapt to different tactical demands has made him a valuable asset for manager Claudio Giráldez.

While Celta are eager to finalise the deal, financial negotiations may prove a sticking point. According to Transfermarkt, Moriba’s current market value is estimated at €4 million, but Leipzig are reportedly seeking closer to €7 million to part ways with the Guinean international. The Bundesliga side appears reluctant to accept a lower figure, banking on the player’s still-untapped potential.

Nevertheless, the general sentiment among those closest to Moriba is that continuity is key. Football analyst Edouard Akontom reflected this view, stating, “It is high time for Ilaix Moriba to stabilize. He’s found an ideal environment in Vigo, and prolonging his stay would be the smartest move for his development.”

Celta Vigo, fighting to maintain their place in La Liga, will be counting on Moriba’s consistency and composure in the final stretch of the season. His contributions on the pitch have already made a tangible difference, and his potential long-term presence could be instrumental in shaping the club’s future.

As negotiations continue behind closed doors, the message from Moriba’s camp remains clear: the player has rediscovered both form and joy in Vigo—and both he and the club are eager for that to continue.