Report: Leeds eye Robin Koch bid should Ben White chase ends in defeat

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Leeds United are planning to make a bid for Robin Koch should Marcelo Bielsa’s side admit defeat in their pursuit of Ben White, according to a report from The Telegraph.

The Telegraph suggests that White is the club’s number one defensive target. However, they are struggling to convince Brighton to sell the 22-year-old, with the Seagulls’ asking price set at over £30 million.

Wisely, Leeds look to be considering alternative targets.

The Yorkshire Evening Post reported in January that Leeds had a scout report on the Freiburg defender on their database.

The Elland Road faithful would have been forgiven for not getting carried away at the time. When the report emerged, Leeds were a Championship side and the Yorkshire Evening Post noted that the club had well over 8,000 reports on file.

But it appears that Leeds may have revisited their report on Koch this summer.

The Telegraph has suggested that the newly-promoted sides could move for the 24-year-old should they fail to sign White.

The report adds that Koch has only one year on his contract, so will be cheaper than White.

TBR View: Koch an excellent replacement for White if required

Failing to bring White back would be a big blow for Leeds. But signing Koch would arguably be a very smart move from Bielsa’s men.

Like White, his passing is a real strength. And his superb vision allows him to pick out some superb long-range passes to his teammates.

The Germany international is also extremely versatile. He can also push into holding midfield, which is something White did on a handful of occasions during his loan spell.

On the pitch, Bielsa has shown little desire to consider a Plan B during his time at Leeds. But on this occasion, the club’s backup plan could potentially lead to an inspired piece of business.