The Wednesday edition of Bild, which Sport Witness relayed, breaks down a major overhaul at Union Berlin. This shift directly impacts Aston Villa and Leeds United. The German newspaper initially focuses on the frustration surrounding 18-year-old Dmytro Bogdanov.
Dmytro Bogdanov transfer saga
An untimely injury delayed his highly anticipated first start for the club. Bild then shifts its gaze to the senior squad. They identify a potential exodus of key personnel before Monday’s transfer deadline. This list prominently features Danilho Doekhi, the Aston Villa and Leeds United target, alongside fellow centre-back Diogo Leite and midfielder Alex Král.
Doekhi remains a fixture in the Bundesliga side’s lineup. He has accumulated 2,010 minutes across 22 matches in all competitions this season. Despite this heavy involvement, his departure appears imminent. The report highlights his precarious contract situation.
The Dutchman’s current deal holds less than six months remaining. Bild asserts the 27-year-old defender will exit at the latest after this season concludes. They view losing him as a ‘significant sporting loss’ for the German club.
His final destination remains unconfirmed. However, Aston Villa have seemingly surged ahead of Leeds United. They have become the most probable destination and may seal the move within this winter window.
Setback for Leeds United?
Leeds United find themselves in a precarious position after missing out on this deal. The 2025/26 campaign is demanding resilience from Daniel Farke’s squad. Missing out on a defensive anchor like Doekhi is a massive blow.
This risky move leaves their backline exposed to the rigours of the season’s second half. Doekhi possesses a rare profile. His aerial dominance and previous goal-scoring records showcase his combination of defensive solidity and a legitimate goal threat.
The 27-year-old’s signing would have injected immediate stability into the team. It also would have provided an alternate attacking route for a Leeds side that rely heavily on their forwards. Consequently, seeing him likely join a Premier League rival like Aston Villa amplifies the blow.
Farke must now extract better performances from his existing defenders. Alternatively, he must scramble for a lesser option before the window shuts. If the Whites concede cheap goals in the coming weeks, critics will certainly look back at this missed chance as the turning point in the season.
