Leeds in Talks to Sign ‘Monster’ Midfielder Alongside Longstaff

Leeds United Eye Hoffenheim Star Anton Stach Amid Pursuit of Sean Longstaff

Leeds United continue to make moves in the transfer market as they prepare for life back in the Premier League, and their latest target is Hoffenheim midfielder Anton Stach. This interest comes despite the club’s ongoing negotiations to sign Newcastle United’s Sean Longstaff, according to Sky Sports journalist Zinny Boswell.

Having secured promotion from the Championship, the Whites are wasting no time in reshaping their squad for the challenges of England’s top division. Manager Daniel Farke, along with the club’s recruitment team, is aiming to avoid the fate that befell last season’s three promoted clubs — all of whom were relegated immediately. To do that, Leeds are prioritising squad depth and Premier League experience, and they are seemingly open to strengthening key areas with multiple reinforcements.

So far, Leeds have already confirmed several notable signings, including Slovenian international Jaka Bijol, Belgian centre-back Sebastiaan Bornauw, and forward Lukas Nmecha. Each arrival brings a mix of physicality, experience, and top-flight pedigree — traits that appear to be central to Leeds’ transfer strategy this summer.

Leeds in Talks for Anton Stach — Even if Longstaff Deal Goes Through

Sky Sports’ Zinny Boswell has revealed that Leeds are now in talks to sign Anton Stach from Bundesliga side Hoffenheim. The club’s interest in the German midfielder appears serious and is not contingent on their pursuit of Longstaff, meaning both could arrive at Elland Road this summer.

Leeds have already submitted a bid worth around £12 million for Longstaff, and reports suggest the deal with Newcastle is progressing well. However, the potential arrival of the English midfielder hasn’t slowed the club’s ambition to add further depth in the centre of the park.

Stach, a towering figure at 6ft 4in, brings a commanding physical presence and tactical intelligence to midfield — attributes that could be vital in helping Leeds adapt to the intensity of the Premier League. In the 2024/25 Bundesliga season, the 25-year-old made 30 appearances for Hoffenheim, scoring once and registering two assists, with five goal-creating actions across the campaign. He also logged over 2,500 minutes of playing time, underlining his durability and importance to the German side.

Building for Survival: Leeds Target Power and Presence

Stach’s profile aligns with what appears to be a clear recruitment pattern emerging at Elland Road — adding physically strong and athletic players who can cope with the demands of England’s highest level. Longstaff, also a tall and hard-working midfielder, fits that mold, while Bijol is known for his no-nonsense defending and aerial dominance at the back.

It’s a calculated approach from Farke and the club’s board. While technical ability remains essential in the Premier League, the modern game increasingly requires players who are not only skilled on the ball but also powerful, fast, and relentless in transitions — especially in midfield and defence.

Leeds’ proactive stance in the market suggests they are determined not to be caught short next season. The idea of signing both Stach and Longstaff illustrates a focus on creating strong competition for places and ensuring the squad is not reliant on a small group of players to survive the rigours of the Premier League.

With more than a month to go in the transfer window, fans can likely expect additional signings — particularly ones who fit this power-and-pace profile. Whether Leeds can secure both Stach and Longstaff remains to be seen, but their ambition to build a resilient and competitive squad is clear.