The Athletic’s Phil Hay has confirmed that Leeds United have advanced their interest in Robin Koch.
Hay confirmed that Koch is on Leeds’ list of potential transfer targets last week. According to the journalist’s latest update, the Whites’ lack of success with regards to signing Ben White on a permanent deal has led to them advancing their interest in the SC Freiburg defender.
He wrote: “The impasse over Brighton’s White led Leeds to advance their interest in Freiburg centre-back Robin Koch, 24, over the weekend.”
Koch, who is currently valued at £15.3m according to Transfermarkt, made 34 appearances in all competitions for the Bundesliga club last season.
In the German top-flight last term, Koch’s average performance rating, according to WhoScored, was a solid 6.73/10. The player’s strengths are said to be his ability to win aerial duels and make blocks, while his weaknesses are said to include his passing, his tackling and his concentration (as per WhoScored).
Leeds have already seen three bids rejected for White, who spent last season on loan at Elland Road and played every single minute of their Championship campaign, and it remains to be seen whether or not a deal can be agreed with Brighton to bring the player to Yorkshire on a permanent basis this summer.
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TIF Thoughts…
Based on Hay’s report it seems clear that White is very much Leeds United’s number one central defensive target, however, having had three offers shunned so far, we can understand why the Premier League club may be going ahead with pursuing other options.
Koch has the ability to play in a defensive midfield position as well as playing in central defence. Therefore, if the Whites are unable to acquire the services of the Brighton defender, Koch’s versatility could be part of the reason he is seen as a suitable alternative.