Ao Tanaka was crucial for Leeds United in their push for promotion and was expected to play a key role this season. But now, after a frustrating year, three clubs want to sign the Japan star.
The longer his role remains limited, the more control shifts away from the club and towards those now watching his situation develop.
Tanaka has started just seven Premier League games this season, a figure that reflects his status on the fringes rather than as a regular contributor.
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His 14 Premier League appearances and 639 minutes underline that point, and that lack of sustained involvement is now shaping how his situation is viewed externally.
Three German clubs want to sign ‘unhappy’ Tanaka
That context matters because TeamTalk claim Union Berlin are interested, while Schalke and Hannover are interested. At the same time, Tanaka has been described as unhappy.
Because of the aforementioned stats, Leeds are open-minded about a potential exit, which shifts leverage away from the club. Indispensable last season, it looks as if Tanaka could now leave Leeds this summer.
Leeds United players celebrate after scoring against Chelsea
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Tanaka’s agent Marijo Knez made it clear long before promotion that Tanaka had the level to step up, saying he was firmly convinced that he can make it in the Premier League.
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He also pointed to stylistic fit, stating Tanaka wants to play a neat style of football, which aligns with how Leeds aim to operate but has not translated into consistent selection.
Contract security does not guarantee Leeds control of Tanaka
On paper, Leeds hold a strong position with Tanaka’s contract running until 2028, but that only matters if the player is central to the project.
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Right now, limited minutes, visible interest, and an unsettled situation combine to weaken that position, and the longer it continues, the more control shifts away from Elland Road.
Leeds still own Tanaka’s contract, but their handling of his role has created uncertainty that others are ready to exploit, and this summer will test how much authority they truly retain.
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