The 22-year-old arrived at the Amex from Mainz 05 in August 2024 and has gone on to rack up 45 senior outings for the south coast club. Loaned out to Leipzig for the second half of last season, he found the net three times and set up a further three goals across 14 matches in all competitions, helping the German side book their place back in Europe's top club competition.
Gruda, a Germany Under-21 international, impressed sufficiently during that spell that both clubs agreed it was in his best interests to extend the arrangement for a full season rather than have him return to the Amex Stadium for pre-season.
Brighton's sporting director Mike Cave explained the thinking behind the decision.
"Brajan had a good second half of the season with Leipzig and he was keen to explore the opportunity of remaining there for the coming year," Cave said.
"This is a move that allows Brajan to continue to secure regular playing time at a good level, in an environment he knows well."
The winger will wear the number 10 shirt for Leipzig again and is set to begin pre-season training with his temporary club immediately, ahead of a Bundesliga campaign that will also include Champions League football. Gruda has struggled for regular minutes at Brighton amid strong competition for places, and the club will hope another season of consistent football in Germany accelerates his development before he eventually returns to challenge for a first-team spot on the south coast.
Brighton signed Gruda for a fee in the region of £25m two years ago, viewing him as a long-term addition to their attacking options. His versatility across the forward line, allied with his technical quality, means he remains highly regarded within the club despite the extended spell away from regular Premier League action.
RB Leipzig finished third in the Bundesliga last season to secure their return to the Champions League, and their sporting leadership have been keen to build continuity in the squad heading into the new campaign.
Gruda's ability to operate across multiple attacking positions was seen as a key factor in resolving to keep him for a further year rather than pursue a permanent deal at this stage.