Why Georginio Rutter’s Brighton could play key role in Leeds United signing Anton Stach
Leeds United Push for Hoffenheim Midfield General Anton Stach as Key Summer Target
Leeds United have identified towering German midfielder Anton Stach as a priority signing this summer as they look to reinforce their squad ahead of the Premier League campaign. The 25-year-old, currently on the books at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, is entering the final two years of his contract—a factor that has caught the attention of several clubs, including Leeds.
Standing at an imposing 6’4″, Stach is a physically dominant presence in midfield. Recently spotted training with Hoffenheim, he has long been on the radar of Daniel Farke and his recruitment team, with his profile fitting the manager’s vision of a robust and intelligent midfield capable of competing at the top level of English football.
Reports have now confirmed that Stach has emerged as a “prime candidate” for Leeds in their bid to strengthen the central spine of their squad. This comes just days after suggestions that the Whites should move quickly for the German international. His combination of height, composure, and passing ability has made him one of the standout performers at Hoffenheim in recent seasons, even as the Bundesliga side narrowly avoided relegation last term by finishing 15th.
Leeds supporters have responded with enthusiasm to the transfer links, hopeful that the club can finalise a deal for Stach alongside other targets such as Lukas Nmecha, Jaka Bijol, and Sebastiaan Bornauw. The quartet would significantly improve Leeds’ physicality, aerial strength, and overall power on the pitch, particularly in set-piece situations—an area Farke has looked to improve.
The potential fee for Stach is believed to be in the region of £17 million, according to early estimates from German media. Leeds, however, face stiff competition, with several other Premier League sides and multiple Bundesliga clubs reportedly monitoring the situation. Nevertheless, Leeds’ proactive approach and Farke’s German connections could give them an edge in securing the midfielder’s signature.
Stach himself is said to be seriously “considering” the move to Elland Road. His decision may hinge on Hoffenheim’s own activity in the transfer market, with the club currently eyeing reinforcements of their own. Charlie Parker-Turner of the Daily Express reports that Hoffenheim are preparing an offer to take Brighton & Hove Albion youngster Malick Yalcouye on loan. The 19-year-old impressed during a loan spell with Austrian side Sturm Graz last season and could be brought in to add competition in the midfield area.
Should Hoffenheim succeed in landing Yalcouye, Stach could interpret it as a sign that the club is preparing for life without him. Feeling potentially surplus to requirements, he might be more inclined to accept a move to England, where regular Premier League football and a fresh challenge await under a manager who clearly values his profile.
Another potential influence in this deal is former Leeds forward Georginio Rutter, now a teammate of Yalcouye at Brighton. Rutter retains a strong affection for Leeds United, and there is a sense that he would welcome his former club benefitting from transfer business that indirectly stems from his current environment.
Since leaving Elland Road, Rutter has flourished in the Premier League. His statistics show a steady improvement year on year, transforming into one of the division’s most dynamic and versatile attackers. Here’s how his numbers stack up across recent seasons:
Team Season Appearances Goals Assists
Leeds United 2022/23 (PL) 13 0 1
Leeds United 2023/24 (Champ) 51 8 16
Leeds United 2024/25 (Champ) 2 0 1
Brighton 2024/25 (PL) 32 8 4
Rutter’s rise underscores the quality that has passed through Elland Road in recent seasons—quality that Leeds are now desperate to replicate and rebuild. Many fans still feel the creative spark left by the departures of Rutter and club legend Pablo Hernandez has never quite been replaced. A signing like Stach, with his passing range and defensive prowess, could help address that void and provide the balance needed in midfield to allow more creative players to thrive.
Supporters have already voiced their belief that Stach would offer more than other rumored midfield options such as Habib Diarra or Noah Sadiki. There is growing optimism that Leeds can fend off rival interest and complete a deal in the coming weeks.
As the transfer window heats up, the hope among Leeds fans is that the club acts swiftly and decisively to bring in a player who could be central to their hopes of Premier League survival—and potentially, much more.