German magazine Kicker claim that Manchester United are now ‘working intensively’ to sign Leeds United defender Robin Koch – but Erik ten Hag’s side face competition from Leverkusen, Frankfurt and other Premier League sides.
Koch, 26, was a regular for Leeds last season. Missing just two Premier League games, the eight-time Germany ace was arguably one of our better players, in terms of consistency. But a key part of a defence that shipped 89 goals.
Since relegation, Koch has been strongly linked with a move. Reports have differed over whether Koch will require a fee to be signed, or that he can go on a free. German media speculate he can leave for nothing, and Kicker agree.
The report states that while Bayer, Frankfurt and other Premier League clubs – perhaps, West Ham, Newcastle and Tottenham – are working hard to sign Koch, Manchester United are ‘working intensively’ to land the German player.
Manchester United working intensively to sign Leeds defender Koch
A move to Old Trafford would be a surprise one for Koch. It is one that will annoy Leeds fans – less so than when Alan Smith moved to them, though, given he is not a boyhood Leeds man. There are better options for the German.
That is because, Koch would struggle to start. Manchester United have Victor Lindelof, Raphael Varane and other superb options in the middle of defence. Ultimately, Harry Maguire is likely to go – Koch would be his replacement.
That means, Koch would play a bit part role. It is widely known that Koch is keen to return to the Germany fold with Euro 2024 on the horizon. To do that, he cannot be playing here and there. He must to be a regular at his next team.
That rules Newcastle out, too. A move back to Germany would be best for Koch, and for Leeds. The likes of Bayer, or Frankfurt, would much more suit Koch. Playing under the watchful eye of German media, he can make Euro 2024.
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