Godwin ObajeLeeds United Agree Personal Terms with Hoffenheim Midfielder Anton Stach
Leeds United have taken a significant step forward in their pursuit of Anton Stach, with the newly-promoted Premier League side reaching an agreement on personal terms with the Hoffenheim midfielder.
According to Florian Plettenberg, Stach has given the green light to join Leeds, though a transfer is not yet complete. The Yorkshire club are still negotiating with Hoffenheim, who are standing firm on a valuation of around €20 million plus performance-related add-ons for the 26-year-old.
Stach remains under contract with the Bundesliga side until 2027, and Hoffenheim are in no rush to sell. They are, however, aware of growing interest in the player from across Europe. “TSG have received several enquiries for Stach,” Plettenberg confirmed, highlighting the growing competition for the highly-rated German.
Despite Hoffenheim’s valuation being seen by some as steep, club insiders argue it reflects fair market value—particularly given the fees paid for players of similar calibre in recent windows. Should a deal be struck, Hoffenheim already have a succession plan in place, having brought in Leon Avdullahu from FC Basel earlier in the transfer window.
The Bundesliga outfit also have considerable depth in midfield, with the likes of Dennis Geiger, Grischa Prömel, Finn Ole Becker, and Umut Tohumcu available to step into Stach’s role if required.
Stach, a physically dominant and defensively adept box-to-box midfielder, has carved out a reputation as one of the most industrious midfielders in Germany. His underlying numbers support that claim. He ranks in the 93rd percentile for interceptions (1.65 per 90), 99th percentile for clearances (3.65 per 90), and 88th percentile for aerial duels won (1.83 per 90) when compared with other midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues, according to FBRef.
During the 2023/24 campaign, Stach finished second overall for total interceptions (74) in the top five European leagues—a reflection of his elite positioning and anticipation skills. His ability to shield the backline, win second balls, and contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a prime candidate to thrive in the intensity of the Premier League.
For Leeds United, who are looking to stabilise in the top flight after their promotion, the addition of a proven European midfielder would represent a major coup. It also signals the club’s intent to build a competitive squad capable of surviving—and potentially thriving—amongst English football’s elite.
While an agreement between the two clubs remains unresolved, progress on personal terms shows Leeds’ determination to land their man. Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days as the Whites aim to finalise the deal before the new season kicks off.
Stay tuned as this story develops.
Godwin Obaje
