Leeds United are emerging as one of the favourites to secure an automatic promotion to the Premier League after maintaining an unbeaten run in the Championship in 2024, winning 12 of their last 13 games.
At the turn of the year, the Whites were 17 points behind Leicester City. But they have now moved to the top of the table after beating Millwall last week 2-0 at Elland Road, although the Foxes can regain the lead by winning their game in hand.
Daniel Farke embarked on a huge task to rebuild the squad after the Whites suffered relegation last season. He made some bold decisions and got rid of several players (either permanently or on loan) who he felt would not add value to the team.
One of the players who moved out on loan was Maximilian Wober. The 26-year-old defender joined Leeds from Red Bull Salzburg in the January transfer window of 2023, signed by Jesse Marsch. He made 19 appearances in all competitions for Leeds.
Farke, however, sent him on loan to Borussia Monchengladbach, where he has heavily impressed. He has made 23 appearances for the German side so far, and Gladbach are satisfied with his development.
According to Sky Germany journalist, Florian Plettenberg, Gladbach want to sign him permanently but Leeds would demand a fee of around £10m. The price, however, is “unrealistic” for Gladbach, but the player is open to staying at the German club beyond the end of the season.
Plettenberg wrote on X: “News Wober: M’Gladbach would like to permanently sign the 26 y/o in the summer because they are completely satisfied with his development! However, the negotiation with Leeds United is very tough.
“Price tag at this stage: €10-12m all-in! At this amount, a permanent deal in the summer is currently unrealistic for Gladbach. Wöber feels comfortable at BMG and can imagine to stay. More talks will follow.”
No future at Leeds United under Farke
If Leeds get promoted to the Premier League, the Whites will look to secure the signing of Joe Rodon permanently. The Wales defender has been outstanding for them, and Leeds are expected to meet Tottenham’s asking price for the defender.
They can raise the funds by permanently offloading some of their unwanted players like Wober. The Austria international can play as a left-back as well as a centre-back, but Farke has adequate options in those areas.
The Whites may have to reduce their asking price for the transfer to go through. The picture will get clearer after the end of the season, but it appears that a potential permanent move cannot be completely ruled out.
