Newcastle United want to sign German ace Robin Koch from Leeds United in the summer to shore up their defence.
According to Caught Offside, Robin Koch has emerged as a summer target for Newcastle United. The Leeds United star could evaluate his options at the end of the season as he targets playing for a bigger team to boost his international chances.
Newcastle United will enter the next window seeking a new central defender to boost their backline. Eddie Howe is seemingly looking for a player with ample Premier League experience instead of signing someone from abroad. The Magpies boast one of the meanest defences in the division, something the manager wants to improve.
Fabian Schar and Sven Botman have proven themselves as one of the finest central defensive pairings in the Premier League this season. They have by far conceded the fewest goals in this campaign, something Howe will hope to continue to clinch a top-four place.
If Howe looks beyond the pair, the options behind them are somewhat underwhelming or lacking in overall quality. The manager wants a new signing to bolster the backline, with several options being reportedly discussed. Southampton’s Mohammed Salisu and a few others are part of their shortlist.
Botman’s former Lille teammate Tiago Djalo is also a target, while Wolves star Max Kilman is also looked at. Leeds United star Robin Koch is the latest player to emerge on Howe’s mind. The German ace has had a good time at Elland Road, becoming one of their key defenders.
Leeds United are in real danger of suffering relegation at the end of the season, which may result in several stars leaving the club. In Koch’s case, he wants to show German national team boss Hansi Flick his capabilities. He feels the exposure at a bigger club could help him better in that regard.
Playing for Leeds and in a relegation battle may not help him too much. Hence the need to sign for bigger clubs has become imperative. Newcastle United could become the perfect club for Koch’s ambitions. The Magpies will compete in Europe next season, making for an attractive destination.
He will have plenty of chances in the first team if Howe manages to sign him from Leeds. Koch has a contract until 2024, meaning he could become available at a decent price in the summer. The Magpies will certainly take note of his price point as they could then focus their finances on other targets.
Koch can play right or left central defence, making him a decent option for Newcastle’s needs. He will certainly become an upgrade to someone like Jamal Lascelles, allowing Howe to rotate his pack periodically.
