Union seeks defensive reinforcements – Diogo Leite is top transfer target
Union Berlin faces a challenging task after a disappointing 2025 season, finishing 11th in the Bundesliga with 32 points (8 wins, 8 draws, 13 losses). The team is looking to strengthen its defense, and Diogo Leite, whose contract with Union expired, is one of the best free agents on the market. The 25-year-old Portuguese defender is valued at €12 million by Transfermarkt and could be signed without a transfer fee.
Who are the best free agent defenders?
Alongside Leite, other top defensive players are available without a contract. John Stones (€12M), who left Manchester City, is on the verge of joining Inter Milan. Oleksandr Zinchenko (€8M) is seeking a return after his knee injury, while Darlin Yongwa (€5M) is looking for a new club after four years at Lorient.
Why is Union’s defense in focus?
With 50 goals conceded last season (33 scored, -17 goal difference), Union’s defense is a key concern. Dennis Cirkin (€6M), André Amaro (€5M), and Axel Tuanzebe (€5M) are potential candidates. Finding a new center-back is crucial to stabilizing the defense.
What’s next for Union?
Union’s next home game is against RB Leipzig (4th place) on November 21, 2026. Signing an experienced defender could strengthen the team’s defense and improve their performance in the new season. Currently, Robert Skov, Aljoscha Kemlein, Livan Burcu, Frederik Ronnow, Lucas Tousart, and Diogo Leite are sidelined with injuries.
