Leeds United caught up in Danilho Doekhi transfer surprise after fresh twist in Germany
The transfer window is full of twists and turns, something Leeds United have just experienced.
Leeds emerged as the top contender to sign Danilho Doekhi from Union Berlin, as Daniel Farke rushed to reinforce his defence at Elland Road.
With Doekhi seeing his contract expiring in June, Farke can capture the Dutchman for a cut-price fee, and the chances of signing him were recently boosted.
Union Berlin are closing in on the signing of Zeno Van Den Bosch after he completed his medical ahead of a switch from Royal Antwerp, and the 22-year-old will become Doekhi’s long-term replacement.
But whilst their hopes of signing him initially increased, they have been dashed by one transfer update.
🚨🐺 EXCL | VfL Wolfsburg are exploring a surprising deal for Danilho Doekhi!
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 12, 2026
He is one of two candidates for Wolfsburg as they look to react in that position after the 1–8 defeat against FC Bayern.#Doekhi will leave Union on a free transfer in the summer.@SkySportDE 🇳🇱 pic.twitter.com/sG5zITM8hJ
Wolfsburg exploring Danilho Doekhi deal
According to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, Wolfsburg are “exploring” a surprise deal for Doekhi.
The 27-year-old is one of two candidates they’re looking at as they attempt to fix their defensive problems following the 8-1 hammering at the hands of Bayern Munich.
Wolfsburg are currently 14th in the Bundesliga, but have conceded the joint-most goals of any team in the division, which reinforces how much they need to sign Doekhi.
From a Leeds point of view, it’s hardly surprising that the towering Dutchman has several suitors, with his contract expiring in the summer.
However, they can’t let this bargain get away from them, and they must act fast to secure his signature.
How Leeds can persuade Doekhi to sign
Doekhi has been compared to Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk due to his physicality and aerial prowess, having scored six goals in 18 appearances this term.
The dominant centre-back is also excellent at reading the game, and Farke knows what sort of skill set he possesses.
Farke tried to sign Doekhi during his spell at Norwich City, and now, with his contract expiring, the dream scenario has emerged.
He could manage the talented defender in the Premier League, and that move could appeal to him, as long as Leeds can use their powers of persuasion.
Should Leeds promise him guaranteed first-team football and a wage increase, then surely a move to Elland Road would be too good to turn down.
That being said, if the worst case scenario unfolds, then Farke must have an alternative in mind.