Erik ten Hag is gearing up for his first season in charge at Bayer Leverkusen and wants to add to his squad before the Bundesliga campaign begins.
Since arriving at the German club in the summer, ten Hag has seen multiple key players depart, such as Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah and Granit Xhaka.
Tah's departure was a particular blow due to the experience and leadership he carried in a red and black shirt.
The centre-back was vice-captain and made over 400 appearances across 10 seasons for the club.
The 29-year-old's exit to Bayern Munich meant defensive cover was needed and Leverkusen addressed this by bringing in Jarrell Quansah from Liverpool for £35m.
However, Quansah is still only 22 so he is unlikely to replace Tah's strong influence in the dressing room instantly and may need time to settle in at the Bundesliga side.
Leverkusen are also looking to close a deal for 25-year-old French centre-back, Loic Bade. from Sevilla.
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Bringing in strong leaders could be crucial to ten Hag getting off to a promising start in his first job since being sacked as Manchester United boss last October.
Despite ten Hag starting a new chapter in his managerial career, he could be about to reunite with one player he worked with in his time at Old Trafford.
Which former player could ten Hag bring to Germany?
According to Sky Germany, Leverkusen are working on a deal to sign Victor Lindelof on a free transfer and have begun talks with him.
The Swedish centre-back left United after last season as his contract expired and he is yet to find a new club.
Ten Hag is familiar with the player, having selected him on 67 occasions during his time in the United dugout.
The Bundesliga side are keen on signing Lindelof due to his leadership skills and the experience he brings.
🚨🆕 Victor #Lindelöf is being discussed at Bayer 04 Leverkusen.
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) August 11, 2025
They value his experience and leadership qualities. The 31 y/o centre-back is a free agent. Erik ten Hag knows him very well. #MUFC
Independently of that, Leverkusen are in the process of finalising the transfer… pic.twitter.com/RTqZY5IYBM
Lindelof represented United 284 times in his eight-year stay at Old Trafford, while he is captain of the Sweden national side and has made 71 appearances for his country.
The 31-year-old certainly has the desired experience Leverkusen are in need of and the player will be keen to continue playing in a top European league. Hence a deal would make sense for all parties and could get done.
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