Fabrizio Romano reveals Leeds Utd star is wanted by ‘many clubs’ but twist emerges over Newcastle links
Leeds will hope Robin Koch is true to his word and commits his future to Elland Road this summer after Fabrizio Romano provided a fascinating update on the German’s future.
The Germany international moved to Leeds from Freiburg in the summer the Whites returned to the Premier League. His first two seasons were dogged by a series of niggling injuries, but this season has been his most productive by far. Indeed, Koch has made 28 of his 66 appearances for Leeds during the 2022/23 campaign.
To that end, despite Leeds’ struggles, he has been extremely consistent in the heart of their defence. And with his deal due to expire in summer 2024, Leeds are understandably looking to tie Koch to a new and improved deal.
That said, failure to agree an extension will leave Leeds vulnerable to Koch’s departure. And the player reportedly has a number of admirers all keeping tabs on his situation, not least Newcastle United.
However, Koch revealed over the weekend that his focus remains entirely on Leeds. Furthermore, he feels happy at the club and has underlined his confidence they can avoid relegation this season.
Koch told Spox: “During the season, I want to distract myself as little as possible with future planning.
“Initial talks are currently underway between the club and my agent. Towards the end of the season, and during the summer break, I will deal with it.
“Now, my focus is 100% on our games and goals.”
As such, Leeds will hope Koch is as good as his word and that an agreement will be reached.
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Romano reveals Koch is a man in demand
However, should Leeds fail to avoid the drop, there is a strong chance that a plethora of their top stars will move on.
Koch certainly falls into that bracket should Javi Gracia’s side be demoted.
Assessing the player’s future, Fabrizio Romano insists the German is a man in demand.
However, he claims Newcastle – while admirers of the player – are yet to make a move.
“On links with Robin Koch – Newcastle are still preparing their summer strategy. I’m not sure the targets are 100% clear at this stage,” Romano told Caught Offside.
“For sure they will be busy and they are tracking many players.”
“Koch has many clubs interested but it’s not something advanced at this stage.”
Newcastle’s interest in Koch may well increase if PSG pursue their initial interest for Sven Botman. The Dutchman has been a rock-solid presence in the heart of their defence. However, PSG director of football Luis Campos reportedly wants to lure him back to France in a big-money deal.
If that were to happen, then Newcastle would likely turn to Koch as a potential replacement.
In the meantime, his focus is fully on Leeds. They are currently 19th, and very much in a dogfight for survival along with seveal other sides. Indeed, just five points separates Crystal Palace in 12th and bottom club Southampton.
Should Leeds secure safety, they will be confident Koch is true to his word and signs a new deal.