Daniel Farke has been left short in the centre-back department after Leeds lost Joe Rodon to injury on Wearside.
The Leeds No.6 was forced off in the 31st minute of the 1-1 draw at Sunderland due to ankle ligament damage, and is now set to spend three weeks on the sidelines.
With Sebastiaan Bornauw expected to step in if Leeds continue using a 3-5-2 formation, it means Daniel Farke has no natural backup options on the bench to cover in the centre of defence.
James Justin and Sam Byram were named as potential makeshift options by the German in his press conference when asked about the absence of Joe Rodon – but Sky Sports now state that Leeds are considering a move for Danilho Doekhi as a solution to the problem.
Leeds United weighing up swoop for Danilho Doekhi
It is said that the Union Berlin No.5 is being checked out by the recruitment team at Leeds after Rodon damaged his ankle.
Which player would you be happy for Leeds to sell in January to fund their transfer business? Let us know in the comments… 🤔💰
The likes of Joel Piroe and Willy Gnonto are struggling to force their way into Farke's plans.
Sky Sports stress that the interest has gone no further than mere consideration, as Leeds consider how best to spend their limited funds in January.
Interestingly, Doekhi only has six months remaining on his contract, so Union Berlin might be open to selling the 27-year-old this winter in order to obtain a fee, rather than lose him for nothing when 1st July arrives.
Failing that, Leeds could also sign the Dutchman on a pre-contract deal, which would see the man born in Rotterdam move to Elland Road on a free transfer in July.
However, that would do little to provide cover for Rodon in the second half of this season.
Leeds United could land a goal machine likened to Virgil van Dijk in Danilho Doekhi
Despite PSR issues leaving Leeds with a limited winter budget, this deal certainly seems worth doing.
Doekhi is a good age for a signing at 27 – his experience means he should be able to make an instant impact.
Furthermore, with Leeds currently among the best in the Premier League at scoring from set-pieces, the 6ft 3in defender could thrive given how well he attacks the ball.
Who is Leeds United’s most-important player? 👀
Answer, and discuss your answer with fellow Leeds fans!
Doekhi has already scored four goals in just 15 Bundesliga appearances so far this season, and also has two goals in three DFB-Pokal outings this term.
No player at Leeds other than Dominic Calvert-Lewin has scored as many as six goals across all competitions this term.
It is no wonder the official Bundesliga website have likened him to Virgil van Dijk – citing his calmness in possession at the back along with his immense passing range as comparable traits to the Liverpool star.
If Union Berlin are open to a cut-price deal for Doekhi given his contract situation, Leeds should be all over it.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
