(Credit: Imago)

Jacob Raw

Wed 8 April 2026 16:40, UK

Leeds United could lose Ao Tanaka in the summer transfer window, with Schalke 04 one club interested, as blame would surely fall on Daniel Farke‘s shoulders.

Tanaka showed his importance for the Whites in the recent FA Cup quarter-final win over West Ham last weekend, but has been limited to game time this season.

German side Schalke are looking at the potential of signing the 27-year-old, with other English clubs also said to be interested.

Tanaka may see Schalke as a perfect opportunity, somewhere where he will be guaranteed game time, with his spot at Elland Road currently uncertain.

Leeds would do well to replace Tanaka this summer, who, when given a chance, has never put a foot wrong in front of Farke.

£10m for Ao Tanaka sale could not be vindicated; here’s why

Leeds are said to be open to selling Tanaka for £10million, and whether that is a Farke preference is yet to be confirmed, but that’s what it would feel like.

£10m is nothing, considering the Japanese star’s talent, and though the 49ers need to raise funds this summer, selling him is not the way to go.

Looking at Tanaka’s FotMob rating for this season in the table above, compared to last campaign, it’s clear to see that his lack of game time has affected his performances.

That’s not to say that he has been bad when given the chance to play, but more so that he’s coped with the step up to the top-flight, but not in Farke’s eyes.

Just seven league starts this season has left fans questioning if Farke has an agenda against Tanaka, who will know his own talent deserves consistent football.

As a result, a return to Germany could be what the midfielder looks for this summer.

Anton Stach injury will show where Tanaka’s future lies

Anton Stach is unlikely to be fit for the clash against Manchester United next Monday, after Farke explained that the German may have suffered ligament damage from his injury against West Ham.

The Leeds midfielder took to Instagram after the game to show a photo of his ankle, which was visibly swollen, while throwing a jibe towards those who said the tackle wasn’t deserving of a penalty for the Whites.

That being said, Satch’s injury provides the chance for another player to step in and shine in the centre of the park.

The obvious choice would be Tanaka, but if he’s not given a chance even after a fitness blow to his team-mate, that could be telling of where his future lies.

Tanaka’s exit may now hinge on Farke’s next steps.