Wolfsburg eye Gladbach loanee Tabaković as potential Wind replacement
VfL Wolfsburg have identified Borussia Mönchengladbach loanee Haris Tabaković as a potential transfer target, according to a report from Kicker. The 31-year-old Bosnian striker, currently on loan from TSG Hoffenheim, has emerged as an option for the Bundesliga club as they plan for the future of their attack.
The interest comes amid uncertainty over the long-term status of Wolfsburg's current first-choice striker, Jonas Wind. The Danish international is currently injured and, with his contract expiring this summer, is considered unlikely to renew his deal at the Volkswagen Arena. This situation has prompted the club's recruitment team to assess potential replacements, with Tabaković reportedly on their shortlist.
Tabaković has enjoyed a productive season at Borussia-Park, scoring 13 goals across all competitions for Gladbach. His contributions have been vital for manager Eugen Polanski's side, particularly during the extended absence of their captain and primary striker, Tim Kleindienst. His form in front of goal has not gone unnoticed, generating admiration from several clubs beyond Wolfsburg.
According to the German publication, Tabaković is viewed as a viable option for Wolfsburg even in the event of relegation, a scenario the club is fighting to avoid as they sit perilously close to the bottom three. His proven goalscoring record in the second tier, where he was the Bundesliga 2's top scorer with 25 goals for Hertha Berlin in the 2022/23 season, adds to his appeal.
However, Wolfsburg face significant competition for his signature. Premier League side Leeds United are also credited with an interest, which could offer Tabaković a route to English football should they achieve promotion. Furthermore, French Ligue 1 club Lille have reportedly placed the right-footed forward on their shortlist as they seek a long-term successor for veteran striker Olivier Giroud.
The situation is complicated by Tabaković's contractual status. He is on loan at Gladbach from Hoffenheim until the end of the season, and the agreement does not include an option for Gladbach to make the move permanent. While Gladbach would like to retain their top scorer, they have no automatic mechanism to do so, meaning Tabaković will return to Hoffenheim, where his future will then be decided.
This impending return to his parent club sets the stage for a potential multi-club bidding war this summer. For Wolfsburg, securing a player of Tabaković's profile would represent a cost-effective solution to a pressing need, while for the player, the move would offer a stable platform in a top European league. The coming months will determine whether Wolfsburg can fend off rival interest to secure the services of the in-form striker.
