Leeds United center-back Max Wöber could be on his way back to Red Bull Salzburg during the January transfer window, but Leeds’ recent ties with the energy drinks giant might open the door for a player swap.
Daniel Farke’s recent comments suggest Leeds won’t have a particularly active January, as there aren’t many urgent changes needed. However, any unexpected departures or setbacks could prompt the club’s recruitment team to remain alert.
According to Austrian outlet Salzburger Nachrichten, Red Bull Salzburg are making a strong push to re-sign Wöber, nearly two years after selling him to Leeds under Jesse Marsch in 2023. Negotiations are reportedly progressing, with a “concrete” chance of Wöber returning to his former club. Salzburg’s mid-table position in the Austrian Bundesliga and their ownership by Red Bull—now a minority stakeholder in Leeds—suggest the asking price won’t be a problem.
Journalist Graeme Bailey has indicated to LeedsUnited.news that discussions could include a potential swap deal, with Leeds United possibly acquiring a Salzburg player in exchange for Wöber.
He said:
“We are told that Leeds, now part of the Red Bull network, are in regular contact and as part of those talks, there was talks about Wober and a potential loan to Salzburg.
“Wober is concerned about his lack of game time but Leeds generally think he has a big part to play. However, there are players at both Leipzig and Salzburg who are available and could help cover Wober, whilst also bolstering Leeds’ options.
“We are told that conversations are continuing, and even if Wober does not leave – we could very well see players arriving at Elland Road from elsewhere in the Red Bull network.”
Leeds should look to leverage the Red Bull scouting network in the coming months, and this potential deal could provide an opportunity to do so.
If Wöber moves to Salzburg, it might be worth exploring the possibility of bringing in a player from Salzburg to strengthen other areas of Leeds’ squad.
Salzburg consistently produces top talent, with players like Maurits Kjaergaard, Dorgeles Nene, and Petar Ratkov all potential targets for Leeds.
