Union Berlin, Schalke and Hannover 96 linked with out-of-favour Leeds midfielder

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·24 marzo 2026

Union Berlin, Schalke and Hannover 96 linked with out-of-favour Leeds midfielder

As the season has progressed, Ao Tanaka has slipped down the pecking order at Leeds United and has yet to make a Premier League start in 2026.

Given his limited playing time, the 27-year-old former Fortuna Düsseldorf midfielder could look to leave the club in the summer, with TeamTalk linking him with a return to Germany.

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According to the report, 2. Bundesliga sides Schalke 04 and Hannover 96 are showing interest in the midfielder and could both move for him should they win promotion to the top flight. Schalke currently sit top of the 2. Bundesliga table, while Hannover 96 are fifth.

1. FC Union Berlin are also said to be among his suitors, with the report suggesting Tanaka is one of several options the capital club are monitoring as they aim to strengthen their midfield this summer.