RB Leipzig have managed to cement themselves in the top of the Bundesliga despite a relatively small wage budget, with spending of €119.1 million compared to Dortmund's €205.1 million in the 2018/19 season.
A €46.6 million pre-tax loss last season put a damper on Dortmund's otherwise sustainable business model with profits of more than €100 million for the prior four seasons compared to RB Leipzig's €18.2 million.
Agent spending is key to attract more sought-after players with Dortmund cashing out €44.5 million on intermediaries in 18/19 where RB Leipzig spent just €13.6 million.