FC Krasnodar submit €12m bid for DR Congo World Cup star Brian Cipenga

DR Congo international winger Brian Cipenga has emerged as a major transfer target for Russian Premier League side FC Krasnodar following his impressive performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 27-year-old attacker has attracted significant attention after making headlines on the global stage, with his displays for the Leopards convincing clubs that he could be a valuable addition to their squads.

Cipenga enjoyed a memorable moment during the 2026 World Cup when he opened the scoring for DR Congo in their Round of 32 clash against England, announcing himself to a wider audience with a composed finish and an energetic performance against one of international football’s biggest teams.

His performances throughout the tournament have reportedly increased his market value, with FC Krasnodar now looking to take advantage of his growing reputation by securing his services during the summer transfer window.

According to reports, the Russian club have already made their intentions clear by submitting an offer worth €12 million to UD Almeria, who currently own the winger’s contract.

However, Almeria are said to have rejected the proposal, believing the valuation does not reflect Cipenga’s importance to their squad and his potential future value.

The Congolese international remains under contract with the Spanish club until 2029, giving Almeria a strong negotiating position as they consider offers for one of their most valuable assets.

Reports indicate that the Spanish side would only consider selling Cipenga if they receive a fee in the region of €15 million to €20 million, a figure they believe better represents his quality, potential and recent performances.

Cipenga has developed a reputation as an exciting attacking player thanks to his pace, direct running, technical ability and willingness to take on defenders. His versatility allows him to operate on either wing, making him an attractive option for clubs searching for dynamic attacking players.

A potential move to Russia would represent another important step in the winger’s career, offering him the chance to compete in a new league and continue his development at a higher level.

For Krasnodar, signing Cipenga would be a statement of ambition as the club looks to strengthen its squad with talented international players capable of making an immediate impact.

Meanwhile, Almeria must now decide whether to resist further approaches or negotiate a deal that matches their valuation of the DR Congo star. With interest growing after his World Cup breakthrough, Cipenga’s future is expected to remain one of the transfer stories to watch during the ongoing summer window.