Manchester United have reportedly added Robin Koch to their shortlist of defensive targets for the summer transfer window. The versatile defender has been with Leeds United since 2020, making 73 Premier League appearances over three seasons before the club was relegated to the Championship. Koch is not expected to continue with Leeds in the second tier, and Manchester United are said to be interested in him. Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reports that Koch is indeed on the Red Devils’ shortlist and ‘loose talks’ have even taken place over a move.
Who is Robin Koch?
Robin Koch is a German professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Leeds United and the Germany national team. He began his career with Eintracht Trier before moving to Kaiserslautern in 2016. After two seasons with Kaiserslautern, Koch joined SC Freiburg in 2017. He made 87 appearances for Freiburg before joining Leeds United in 2020 for a fee of £13m.
Koch’s playing style
Koch is known for his versatility and can play as a central defender or defensive midfielder. He is comfortable on the ball and has good passing ability, which makes him an ideal fit for Marcelo Bielsa’s possession-based style of play at Leeds United. Koch is also strong in the air and has good tackling ability, which makes him a solid defender.
Koch’s international career
Koch made his international debut for Germany in November 2019 in a friendly against Belarus. He has since won eight caps for his country and was part of the squad for Euro 2020. Koch played in Germany’s opening game of the tournament against France but was substituted at half-time due to injury.
Koch’s future at Leeds United
Koch’s contract at Elland Road expires next year, so the club will likely be happy to cash in on him while they can. Leeds United are reportedly willing to sell Koch for the right price, with the likes of Newcastle and Arsenal also reported to hold an interest in him. The 26-year-old did state in March that there had been initial discussions over a new deal with Leeds, although nothing has been signed and that was before they were relegated from the top flight.
Manchester United’s interest in Koch
Manchester United are said to be interested in signing Koch as they look to strengthen their defence ahead of the new season. The Red Devils have already signed Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund and are reportedly close to completing a deal for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane. Koch would provide additional depth to United’s defence and his versatility would be an added bonus.
Conclusion
Robin Koch is a highly-rated defender who has impressed during his time at Leeds United. He is comfortable on the ball, strong in the air, and has good tackling ability. Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing him, and with his contract set to expire next year, Leeds United may be willing to sell him for the right price. Koch’s versatility would make him an ideal fit for United’s defence, and he could provide additional depth to the squad.