Leeds United Nears Signing of Anton Stach with Personal Terms Agreed

Leeds United has reportedly made significant progress in its pursuit of Anton Stach, a midfielder currently playing for Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga. According to Florian Plettenberg, a journalist for Sky Sports Germany, personal terms have been agreed between the club and the 26-year-old player as Leeds aims to bolster its midfield options for the upcoming 2025/26 season. Hoffenheim is reportedly seeking a transfer fee of approximately €20 million, plus additional performance-related add-ons, for the German international, who has two years remaining on his current contract.

Stach, known for his versatility on the field, primarily operates as a defensive midfielder but can also adapt to a centre-back position. He has accumulated considerable experience in Germany's top division, featuring in 122 Bundesliga matches and contributing five goals and 16 assists throughout his career with clubs such as Mainz 05 and Hoffenheim.

The negotiations for Stach come shortly after Leeds United reached an agreement in principle to sign Sean Longstaff from Newcastle United, indicating the club’s commitment to enhancing its squad depth. The reported fee for Longstaff is approximately £12 million, with an additional £3 million in potential add-ons. Longstaff, who has been primarily utilized as a central midfielder, is entering the final year of his contract with Newcastle, having not started a Premier League match since December 2024.

This transfer activity highlights Leeds United's proactive approach in preparation for their return to the Premier League. The club's management, under the guidance of head coach Daniel Farke, seeks to address key areas of need within the team and enhance overall competitiveness in the top tier of English football.

The potential signing of Stach also reflects broader trends within the Premier League, where clubs are increasingly looking to secure talent from international markets, particularly those with proven records in competitive leagues. The financial implications of these transfers are noteworthy, as clubs navigate the balance between investment in player acquisitions and adherence to financial fair play regulations.

In conclusion, as Leeds United approaches the new season with renewed ambitions, the acquisition of players like Anton Stach could prove pivotal in their quest for success in the Premier League. The upcoming negotiations with Hoffenheim will be closely monitored, as fans eagerly await the official announcement of Stach's signing, which may set the tone for further transfer activities in the coming weeks.