Leeds United have been watching as Max Wöber’s Austria qualified for the Euro 2024 knockout stage, topping a group that included France and the Netherlands.
While Leeds’ pre-season begins tomorrow, Euro 2024 enters the knockout stages and continues to dominate football discussions.
Leeds are represented in the tournament’s final 16, with Max Wöber’s Austria the one to watch after the centre-back put an end to a terrible start.
Max Wöber has enhanced Austria’s chances of winning Euro 2024.
On matchday one, Wöber’s clumsy header turned into his own goal from a Kylian Mbappe cross, and few expected Ralf Rangnick’s Austria to sail through their group.
Not only that, but back-to-back wins over Poland and the Netherlands, with Wöber impressing in the latter, meant they finished first in the group, ahead of France, with the Dutch in third.
It sets up a Round of 16 match for Austria versus Turkey, who are thankfully on the winning side of the predetermined bracket draw, with the possibility of facing England in the semi-finals if both qualify.
Leeds will be thrilled if Wöber catches the spotlight at Euro 2024.
Aside from international activity, Wöber’s main concern is determining his future plans for 24/25.
Following an impressive loan with Borussia Monchengladbach, it has been widely reported in Germany that the club would like to sign the centre-back permanently, but are being held back by a €15 million (£12.7 million) asking price.
Leeds are in no position to reduce their expectations for the Austrian, and as is often the case in important international competitions, a strong performance for his country may increase the value.
Gladbach want him permanently, but another top-flight team could be impressed by Wöber’s performances for club and nation in 2024 and seek for a high-value transfer.
When cashing in on players, you must act quickly to guarantee that you maximize value for them, and Wöber may be worth a significant sum once the Euros are over.