Gustavo Varela: Leipzig linked with Monza striker after Serie A scoring burst

Portugal and Cape Verde forward Gustavo Varela is reportedly attracting interest from Leipzig, with the 21-year-old currently at Monza in Serie A.

Varela has scored nine goals in nine league appearances this season, adding one assist, and has also found the net twice in one Coppa Italia appearance. His form has come just months after joining Monza from Benfica B in a €2.5m transfer.

The centre-forward has started 90% of Monza’s Serie A matches and played 760 minutes in the competition, making him a regular feature of the club’s attack. His current market value is listed at €5m.

A move to Leipzig would take Varela from Italy’s top flight to the Bundesliga, although the rumour does not indicate that an agreement has been reached. The German club has been linked with the striker while he continues his first season as a Monza player.

Varela began his senior development at Benfica, having joined the Portuguese club from PAOK’s academy in 2022. He spent last season on loan at Gil Vicente before returning to Benfica B for the start of the 2026-27 campaign.

He remains under contract with Monza until 30 June 2030, leaving the Italian club in a strong contractual position should Leipzig pursue the reported interest.