Danilho Doekhi: Leeds eye free-transfer move as Bundesliga observers hail ideal Premier League fit | OneFootball

Leeds United are interested in Union Berlin centre-back Danilho Doekhi, who is out of contract at the end of the season and could join on a free.

According to Leeds Live, with Premier League safety within reach, Leeds are assessing a summer move, though Borussia Dortmund and Frankfurt are in the chase. Doekhi stayed put in January and is not expected to sign new terms. One Bundesliga voice added that Premier League wages are higher, while arguing it is not the better league.

The 27-year-old has been a mainstay since arriving in 2022, starting regularly in Union’s back three.

That experience suits Leeds, who switched to a back three earlier this season and now need extra depth at centre-back. Joe Rodon, Jaka Bijol and Pascal Struijk are the first-choice options, with Sebastiaan Bornauw currently out of favour. Recruitment priorities also include a goalkeeper, a back-up left-back, an attacking midfielder and a striker.

Observers highlight his aerial dominance, leadership and physicality, plus a significant set-piece threat, while noting limited pace that smart positioning can cover. He is regarded as reliable and durable.

Standing at six ft three in, Doekhi has scored seven goals in 34 appearances in all competitions this season. He previously came through Excelsior and Ajax’s youth ranks before four years at Vitesse.

Doekhi is the nephew of Winston Bogarde, the former Ajax, Barcelona and Netherlands defender who won the Champions League in 1995 and later played for Chelsea.

Source: Leeds Live