Union Berlin's Diogo Leite should avoid emulating Sheraldo Becker's fate on the team
Union Berlin Braces for Defensive Overhaul as Diogo Leite's Departure Looms
The future of 1. FC Union Berlin's defence is shrouded in uncertainty, with reports suggesting that centre-back Diogo Leite is set to leave the club before the transfer window closes on September 1st. This potential exit could generate significant transfer income, with Leite and fellow centre-back Danilho Doekhi's combined value estimated to be over €30 million[1].
Union Berlin is actively seeking to address the void left by Leite's departure. One of their primary targets is Sinaly Diomandé from AJ Auxerre, an Ivorian international with Ligue 1 experience. Diomandé is valued around €5 million but could be acquired for approximately €4.5 million[1]. Stanley Nsoki, a loan signing from TSG Hoffenheim, is also being considered to cover defensive needs, although his current ability is considered not on par with Leite and Doekhi[2][3].
However, the club's plans have been disrupted by injuries. Nsoki is still out injured, and the availability of Doekhi is uncertain after he had to be substituted at half-time against Piraeus due to an injury[1]. This has left Union's central defence in a precarious position ahead of the new season.
Meanwhile, coach Steffen Baumgart has expressed concerns about reliable planning on the left-back position with Leite's future uncertain. Tom Rothe, who has been trained as a left-back, is likely to start in the first round of the DFB-Pokal for Union Berlin[1].
In a recent match against Olympiakos Piraeus, Union Berlin missed an opportunity, with coach Steffen Baumgart making unusual substitution decisions. Chiquinho, a forward for Olympiakos, scored a spectacular goal in the game, and was seen looking for Diogo Leite's jersey after the match. It remains to be seen if Chiquinho will be the last player to wear Leite's number four jersey for Union Berlin.
Becker, another centre-back for Union Berlin, is also set to leave the club after expressing his desire to do so two years ago. His transfer was not resolved until late August in 2022.
These developments suggest a significant transition in Union Berlin's defence, with Leite's exit paving the way for new signings aimed at maintaining the team's competitiveness. Union Berlin fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on the club's defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season.
[1] Source: Union Berlin Transfer News [2] Source: Transfer News - 1. FC Union Berlin [3] Source: Stanley Nsoki
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