Schalke face competition for Leeds midfielder Ao Tanaka
Schalke 04 are interested in signing Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka but face significant competition from clubs in England and Germany, with the player's valuation potentially proving a stumbling block. According to a report from Sky Germany, the 2.Bundesliga club are keen on the Japanese international, who has found playing time limited in the Championship this season. However, the Royal Blues are not alone, with several unnamed English sides also monitoring the situation.
Further interest is reported from within Germany, where Bundesliga clubs SC Freiburg and 1.FC Union Berlin, as well as 2.Bundesliga side Hannover 96, are said to have already made inquiries about Tanaka's availability. Despite the widespread interest, the player's own preference, according to the report, is to remain in England. Tanaka only moved to Leeds from Fortuna Düsseldorf in the summer of 2024 for a fee of around €4 million.
The 27-year-old was a pivotal figure in Leeds's promotion-winning campaign last season, contributing significantly from midfield. His fortunes have changed this term, however, with just seven league starts to his name. The arrival of German midfielder Anton Stach has pushed Tanaka down the pecking order at Elland Road, prompting the club to consider a sale. Leeds are reportedly open to offers but have set an asking price between €10 million and €12 million.
That valuation is considered a major hurdle for Schalke, who could be priced out of a move as they navigate the financial constraints of the second division. The club's interest underscores their aim to build a squad capable of challenging for promotion back to the Bundesliga, with Tanaka's profile and experience in Germany making him an attractive target. His proven ability in the 2.Bundesliga with Fortuna Düsseldorf, prior to his move to England, adds to his appeal for the Gelsenkirchen side.
For Leeds, a sale near their asking price would represent a significant profit on a player who is no longer a regular starter, providing funds for their own squad reinforcement. Tanaka's next move will hinge on whether any suitor meets Leeds's financial demands and if the player's desire to stay in England can be fulfilled with sufficient playing time. The coming weeks will determine if Schalke can overcome the financial and competitive obstacles to secure a key midfield target.
