Leeds target Bundesliga midfielder amid Hoffenheim overhaul | OneFootball

Leeds United Monitor Stach as Hoffenheim Restructure Gathers Pace

Rebuilding with Identity and Intent

At Hoffenheim’s Zuzenhausen training base, a clear shift is underway. Sporting director Andreas Schicker has set out his blueprint with purpose. “One third TSG identity, one third academy, one third top talents,” Schicker explained, as he outlined his strategy for reshaping the squad alongside new head coach Christian Ilzer, according to Kicker.

That direction signals change, and not just cosmetic tweaks. The club are seeking to become younger, more agile and aligned with a development-first model. “The key thing is that players understand it clearly,” said Schicker, underscoring his desire to maintain structure and clarity in the dressing room.

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What follows will be a busy period of exits. Defenders Attila Szalai and Stanley Nsoki, along with forwards Mergim Berisha and Gift Orban, are among those Hoffenheim may part ways with. “It was clear from the start that these things do not happen in June,” said Schicker. “But things are starting to move slowly now.”

Patience Needed Before Business Is Done

There is no panic. Schicker and Hoffenheim are prepared to wait for the right offers. “It is a give and take. The important thing is that players know the situation clearly,” he added, again emphasising structure over chaos.

For all the talk of departures, one name does not figure on the exit list: Anton Stach. The 26-year-old midfielder was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise underwhelming 2024-25 campaign, and he remains contracted until 2027. He is also one of the club’s most valuable assets.

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“Stach is one of the few players with high value potential,” Kicker noted. There is interest from England, notably from Leeds United, who are preparing for life back in the Premier League. They are not alone. Other clubs are also watching.

Premier League Appeal Grows

Though Stach is not pushing for a transfer, he is reportedly open to new challenges. Given Hoffenheim’s recent struggles and their poor transfer balance, a sale could make financial sense.

“Stach is not openly flirting with a move, but he is considering it,” Kicker wrote. Leeds’ interest adds weight to that conversation. A bid reaching into eight figures could tempt Hoffenheim, who are unlikely to receive similar value from elsewhere in the squad.

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For Leeds, a player of Stach’s profile would offer physicality, composure and tactical flexibility. There is no rush, but timing will be key. Hoffenheim may hold their cards for now, but the door is clearly ajar.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Anton Stach would be a statement signing. Big, intelligent, and reliable in possession, he would be the kind of midfield anchor the club have lacked for years.

At 26, Stach offers experience without being past his peak. His Bundesliga grounding means he knows how to handle pressure, and his adaptability across central roles is ideal for a Premier League side that often switches shape mid-game.

Supporters will already be imagining him bossing it at Elland Road, feeding the flanks, breaking up play, and making those crucial second balls his own. If this deal comes off, it is not just smart recruitment, it is a signal that Leeds mean business on their return to the top flight.

The fans will want more than survival. They want to compete. And players like Stach give would give them every reason to believe they can.