Leeds United striker Lukas Nmecha on FC Köln’s January transfer shortlist

Leeds United striker Lukas Nmecha is among the players being considered by FC Köln as the Bundesliga club look to strengthen their attack in January.

According to German publication Sport BILD, Köln are exploring Premier League options after Thijs Dallinga suffered a serious knee injury earlier this month.

The 27-year-old Nmecha has also been linked with a return to Germany by Sky Sport, although financial considerations could make a deal difficult.

Köln are assessing their attacking options ahead of the winter transfer window following injuries to Dallinga and Ragnar Ache.

Dallinga suffered a cruciate ligament injury during a friendly against Viktoria Köln on 3 October and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Ache also sustained a muscle injury in the same match, leaving head coach René Wagner with reduced options in attack.

Sport BILD reports that director of football Thomas Kessler is considering reinforcements in several positions, including centre-forward and defensive midfield.

Nmecha is among the attacking candidates under consideration, with Köln also previously linked with Callum Wilson and Eddie Nketiah.

Nmecha joined Leeds from Wolfsburg on a free transfer in July 2025, signing a two-year contract that expires in June 2027.

The Germany international has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter this season, with his recent Premier League appearances largely coming from the bench.

Sky Sport reported earlier this month that Köln had placed Nmecha on their list of possible January additions.

However, the report indicated that no concrete negotiations had begun.

With Nmecha approaching the final six months of his contract, Leeds could face a decision over whether to retain him or consider offers during the winter window.

Nmecha has considerable Bundesliga experience from his previous spell with Wolfsburg, but a return to Germany is far from certain.

Sky Sport identified his potential transfer fee and wages as significant obstacles for Köln, who are also assessing other attacking candidates.

The German club's financial position could therefore influence whether they pursue Nmecha or turn to a less expensive alternative.

There has been no confirmed bid or agreement between the clubs.

Köln will continue assessing attacking options ahead of the January transfer window, with Nmecha among the candidates under consideration.

The club must determine whether a deal is financially realistic before making a formal approach to Leeds, while the striker's contract situation could become increasingly relevant as the window approaches.