Manchester United have held ‘loose talks’ with Leeds United over the signing of Robin Koch this summer.
That is according to Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Pettenberg, who reports Koch does indeed feature on Man United’s shortlist and discussions have taken place.
Koch is one of several players expected to depart Leeds in the coming weeks after the transfer window officially opened on Wednesday.
The Whites were relegated from the Premier League last month and as such, numerous members of the squad now have release clauses in their contract ready to be triggered.
It was reported earlier this week Koch could depart Elland Road for free this summer, a story which has since been debunked, though with just 12 months left on his deal, Leeds may struggle to bring in the £13 million they paid Freiburg back in 2020.
Man United hold Koch talks
It is well documented Man United are in the market for a new centre back during the transfer window, with Harry Maguire potentially set to depart.
Napoli’s Kim Min-Jae is said to be a top target, but with uncertainty still surrounding their takeover, Erik ten Hag may be working on a lower budget than he would’ve liked.
The Red Devils are likely to have more pressing priorities elsewhere, including in midfield and attack, meaning they may have to bring someone on the cheap at the back, which Koch would fit the bill of.
On the interest, Plettenberg wrote: “News Koch: He’s on the shortlist of Man United! Loose talks took place. Confirmed.”
Despite these reports, it is very difficult to see a club like Man United looking to buy Koch. He played 36 of Leeds’ 38 Premier League matches as part of the worst defence in the division.
In all likelihood, Koch’s agent is looking to drum up interest in his client’s services by leaking this sort of news.
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