According to rumors, Manchester United is 'intensively contemplating' making a surprise approach for Leeds United center-back Robin Koch.
It's no secret that Erik ten Hag wants to strengthen his defense this summer as Harry Maguire's future with the Red Devils is becoming more and more uncertain.
Koch has previously proven that, on his best day, he can be a reliable defender. But given that he played for a Leeds squad that was demoted, it is quite unexpected to see Man Utd making a strong bid for his services.
The 26-year-old will nevertheless be free to go on a move because of a relegation clause in his contract. Therefore, contribute cheaply to the Red Devils.
According to Kicker, Man Utd are 'intensively contemplating' signing Koch this summer as a result. They are indeed mentioned in the report as being "in the mix," along with Bundesliga team Bayer Leverkusen.
Koch played in 36 Premier League games for Leeds last year, starting the majority of them.
In a season in which the Whites gave up a remarkable 78 goals, he was unable to stop the Whites' relegation despite a few strong efforts. The Premier League side with the lowest defensive record was by far this one.
Man United are undoubtedly searching for a new center-back this summer, as was already revealed.
Ten Hag seemed to be in a hurry to clear Maguire's name. For instance, he included him in a rumored Declan Rice part-exchange deal that also involved Scott McTominay.
Therefore, it is obvious that the management will need to sign at least one new defender this summer.
Axel Diassi of Monaco, a center back who Man Utd missed out on signing in the recent transfer window, is currently on Ten Hag's radar.
But Koch has apparently suddenly become a different prospective choice. Even yet, it would still come as quite a shock to witness it.
Ten Hag, though, is undoubtedly making every effort to have Maguire removed from the books at this time. Loans, permanent sales, and swap agreements have all been discussed.
That comes as no surprise, though, given that the England international makes almost £190,000 per week in salary.
However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's approval of Man United's outrageous £80 million purchase price for Maguire ensures that they will not recover even close to that sum.
Consequently, it will be intriguing to watch if Ten Hag decides to include Koch. Although he's a reasonable choice, Diasi still looks like a more likely addition despite these reports.