Red Bull Salzburg director Christoph Freund insists he could not stand in Max Wober’s way as the £10 million defender seals a dream move to Premier League outfit Leeds United, speaking to Austrian publication Laiola 1.
Joining Tyler Adams, Rasmus Kristensen and Brenden Aaronson at Elland Road, Wober is now the fourth Red Bull import in Jesse Marsch’s squad.
The one-time Ajax youngster joined in a £10 million deal earlier this week, becoming Leeds’ first signing of the January transfer window while adding some serious depth to an often injury-prone backline.
Wober’s departure, meanwhile, leaves a mighty void in the heart of Red Bull Salzburg; the 24-year-old having captained the Austrian champions on 16 occasions this season while providing six assists from left-back.
But if any club is capable of locating an adequate successor, it’s one that bounced back from the high-profile exits of Sadio Mane, Erling Haaland, Dominik Szoboszlai, Patson Daka and more.
Leeds United reunite Maximilian Wober with former Red Bull Salzburg coach Jesse Marsch
“He was an extremely important player,” explains Freund, who’s transfer market expertise earned him the admiration of Premier League giants Chelsea.
“But (moving to England) was his wish. I’m convinced we can replace him. It’s another great opportunity for our young players (to step into Wober’s shoes).”
Wober, who once had a short-lived spell at Sevilla, made his name as one of Europe’s most exciting young centre-halves before adapting impressively to an attack-minded left-back berth at Salzburg. It remains to be seen whether Marsch plans to utilise Wober in the centre or out wide. Both Junior Firpo and Stuart Dallas have endured their fair share of injury issues this season.
‘A dream for me’
“It’s a massive challenge for me,” Wober tells LUTV. “I’ve already seen a lot. I’ve played for Ajax and Sevilla, along with three-and-a-half years at Salzburg.
“Coming now to Leeds, a club with such a big history and tradition is definitely something special. It was always a dream for me growing up. Arriving at Elland Road feels amazing.
“Some of my biggest strengths are my personality and character. I’m never going to give up on the pitch, I will leave it all out there. It doesn’t matter what score it is or if we are winning or losing, I’ll give everything for this badge.
“I will play wherever the team needs me. It doesn’t matter if it is left-back, centre-back or as a number six. I’m fine with everything and will give my best. I’m experienced at playing as a left-back and I really like it, especially being more offensive.”
Leeds travel to Cardiff City this weekend in the FA Cup third round. Wober is in line to make his Whites debut in South Wales.
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