Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Mon 4 May 2026 15:40, UK

Sebastiaan Bornauw has had a tough time and start to life in England at Leeds United.

The 27-year-old centre-back arrived with plenty of experience due to his playing time in the Bundesliga but has remained on the periphery of Daniel Farke’s squad since.

You would not be amiss to suggest that the Whites defender is unhappy with his minutes at Elland Road this season, particularly in a World Cup year.

With the 2025 signing struggling to make an impact, an exit for all parties could be the most optimal move.

Now, ahead of a potential Leeds exit, one of Bornauw’s former clubs could take him off the Whites’ hands.

What has been said about Sebastiaan Bornauw’s future?

From the start of the season, Leeds opted to play a back four, and with only two centre-backs, a lack of minutes for Bornauw could be understandable.

However, since November, Farke has switched to a back three, with the Belgian still failing to get game time.

According to Kicker, Bornauw is now a candidate for FC Koln as their defence “requires experience” this summer. Bornauw had previously played for the Bundesliga club between 2019 and 2021, before making a move to Wolfsburg.

At Leeds United, the centre-back has failed to impress manager Farke, with the 27-year-old playing just nine Premier League matches and starting four this season.

Although he has been an outcast among the squad, in any deal, the Belgian would not come cheap, with Leeds expected to demand a significant fee due to Bornauw’s current contract, according to the report.

The centre-back has a deal lasting until 2029. However, with Leeds eyeing centre-back, moving Bornauw on seems smart.

Leeds should accept any offer that gets their money back on Bornauw

Bornauw joined Leeds for £5million, and despite it being a fairly nominal fee, it has been £5m too much for a player that barely plays.

The Whites should not be picky in how much they accept to sell the centre-back for but must not allow themselves to be underpriced.

Getting back the money they spent on the defender would ultimately be a win all around. However, after minimal appearances, that could be difficult to achieve.

A loan deal with a conditional obligation or option to buy could be a good workaround with the Whites, then hoping he performs away from Elland Road.