Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are ‘too old’ for RB Leipzig to sign, according to their sports director Ralf Rangnick

RB LEIPZIG are so committed to their youth policy that they would not entertain signing Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo - because they're too old.

The German surprise package, who top the Bundesliga after 13 games and are yet to lose in the league, have risen through the pyramid at an alarming rate.

And they've done it with a squad without superstars - with an average age of just 23.

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Sports director Ralf Rangnick is proud of their achievements and wouldn't even think of a move for Messi or Ronaldo once their careers reach their twilight - as they wouldn't fit in with the club ethos.

Rangnick grinned: "It would be absurd to think that it could work with them here.

"They are both too old and too expensive."

Leipzig are a marmite side in Germany - revelled by some as a youthful, fearless side who have risen through the system, hated by others for their corporate background and 'francise' beginnings.

But Rangnick is unperturbed and is just enjoying the ride.

He continued: "We have the youngest team — and most inexperienced — in the league.

"I don't know if it's a revolution, but it's unusual that a team, who was in the fourth division three-and-a-half years ago is now on 33 points after 13 games.

"Whenever a new club comes along, fans of rival teams see them as an opponent and an enemy.

"It was the same with Hoffenheim, we were disliked in the second division, but really disliked when we went up to the Bundesliga.

"Then we played Bayern and we were top, and everyone was supporting us.

"There are people, not just in Leipzig, who think we deserve what is happening to us right now.

"Neutrals will say we deserve what we have with such young players."

And he's not ruling out the team keeping up their incredible title charge - just like Leicester did last season in the Premier League.

"In a normal season, Bayern will win the title, but maybe this isn't a normal season.

"Last season, we were the favourites in each game. This season we have nothing to lose."