Leeds United Linked with Hoffenheim Striker Haris Tabakovic
Leeds United are monitoring Hoffenheim striker Haris Tabakovic ahead of the summer transfer window, according to a report from German publication Bild. The 31-year-old Bosnia and Herzegovina international is currently on loan at Borussia Monchengladbach, where he has scored 13 goals in 30 competitive appearances this season.
Tabakovic's future is uncertain as his loan spell in Gladbach concludes. The Bundesliga club are reportedly unlikely to trigger a purchase option believed to be set at €5 million, a fee demanded by his parent club, TSG Hoffenheim. This situation has alerted other clubs, with Leeds now joined by French side Lille in showing interest, according to the report.
When asked about his future after a recent match, Tabakovic stated that no discussions were currently taking place. "If no discussions are taking place, I don't need to worry," he said. "I still have a year left on my contract with Hoffenheim. For me, it's about performing in the remaining six games and doing my part to help us stay in the league." His focus remains on aiding Gladbach's Bundesliga survival bid.
For Leeds, the pursuit aligns with a likely need for proven attacking options as they prepare for a Premier League campaign. Tabakovic offers a physical profile and a respectable goal return in a major European league this season. His international experience, with four goals in ten caps for Bosnia, adds to his credentials. The potential move represents a relatively low-risk investment for a player entering the final year of his contract.
The interest from Daniel Farke's side suggests a pragmatic approach to the market, targeting experienced players who can contribute immediately. Tabakovic’s career has seen him develop in Switzerland with Grasshopper and St. Gallen before his 2022 move to Hoffenheim, where he found opportunities limited prior to his successful loan. A transfer to Elland Road would mark a significant step into a top-five league as a regular starter.
Should Leeds formalize their interest, they would need to negotiate a fee with Hoffenheim, who may be willing to sell to avoid losing him on a free transfer in 2025. The competition from Lille could complicate matters, but the prospect of Premier League football may prove decisive. For Tabakovic, the move would offer a major career challenge at a later stage, while for Leeds, it could provide a cost-effective solution to bolster their forward line.
