Frankfurt sporting director suggests interest in Leeds United defender Robin Koch
Eintracht Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krösche has suggested potential interest in Leeds United centre-back Robin Koch in the German club’s bid to strengthen their defensive options.
Following their relegation from the Premier League, Leeds are unlikely to be able to keep all their top talent. The German outfit, whose 7th-place finish sees them qualify for the Europa Conference League, look to bolster their squad for the upcoming Bundesliga season.
Speaking to Sky Sports Germany, Krösche said: “Robin Koch is also an interesting name – no question about it. But we are still at the beginning and there are still many issues that we want to tackle in the future.”
Changing profile at Leeds
Koch, 26, is unlikely to want to play in the Championship next season and has proved over his time at Leeds that he is capable of performing at a top level and internationally having earned 8 appearances for the senior Germany team.
His potential departure seems more likely following reports that Leeds are interested in a move for Liverpool defender Nat Phillips [The Athletic], who is a much more suitable profile of player for the Championship than Koch.
While Koch did not have his finest season last year with his side conceding 78 goals in their disappointing Premier League campaign.
However, he excelled aerially for Leeds and ended the season in the 91st percentile of aerial duels won with 3.15 per 90 while managing a respectable 4.31 clearances per 90 in the Premier League [Transfermarkt], showing that he is still of value to top sides.
But a move to the Bundesliga would suit the German. Moving back to his home country and much closer to his home town may help the defender re-establish himself as a top center-back and boost his chances of being selected for Germany’s Euro 2024 squad, held in his homeland.
Koch has also been linked to clubs such as Manchester United [Independent] and Tottenham [90min] meaning a move away from York looks highly likely.
As with many relegated sides, the profile of the squad will likely be drastically different next season. Uncertainty surrounding Leeds’ new manager may also give Koch more season to seek a new challenge.
In other Leeds United news, this Elland Road ace could be leaving as part of a triple deal.