Leeds United were strongly linked with a move for Union Berlin defender Danilho Doekhi in January, and Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed that interest remains ahead of the summer.
On Wednesday morning, Romano confirmed that Leeds remain in the hunt for Doekhi with his contract at Union Berlin set to expire. Doekhi has been consistent throughout the season, confirming he will leave.
Leeds are targeting a player who has not missed a single minute of Bundesliga action for two seasons and scored seven goals, a level of reliability that is rare at any level.
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That consistency directly addresses a recurring issue in Leeds’ defensive unit, where injuries have disrupted continuity and forced constant reshuffling. Joe Rodon has failed to start the last few matches.
Romano confirms other clubs interested in goalscoring Doekhi
There are clear reasons why Leeds want Doekhi, none more so than his goal threat from centre-back. But it has also attracted Borussia Dortmund and cash-rich, PIF-backed Saudi Pro League sides this summer.
Romano posted: “Danilho Doekhi, set to leave Union Berlin on a free transfer and already attracting a strong interest from PIF-backed clubs in Saudi Arabia. Borussia Dortmund and Leeds United also keen.”
Doekhi’s return of seven goals over two seasons highlights a measurable attacking contribution that most centre-backs do not provide.
His output points to strong aerial presence and timing in the box, giving Leeds a genuine set-piece threat that their current options have not delivered consistently.
Why Leeds already identified him as a Van Dijk profile
The club’s interest is not new, with Leeds previously considered a move for Doekhi earlier this year when defensive depth became a concern.
That same assessment described him as being compared to Virgil van Dijk, reflecting a profile built on composure, physical strength, and control in defensive duels.
The official Bundesliga website comparing him to Virgil van Dijk. They likened his calmness in possession along with his immense passing range from deep, something which van Dijk has become renowned for.
How Danilho Doekhi knows Brenden Aaronson and Pascal Struijk
There is also a practical advantage in his existing relationships, having played alongside Brenden Aaronson at Union Berlin during the midfielder’s loan spell after relegation in 2023-24.
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A good signing?
He also came through the Ajax system with Pascal Struijk, which reduces adaptation risk and strengthens dressing room integration. Especially, because it could be Struijk he partners in the middle of defence.
Leeds are not reacting to short-term noise but targeting a player who solves two clear problems at once, combining durability with a consistent goal threat from defence.
Doekhi’s record and availability on a free transfer make this interest a logical step. But he is not the only centre-back Leeds are after. The Whites also want Wolves duo Santiago Bueno and Ladislav Krejci.
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