Sebastiaan Bornauw has received a glowing endorsement from former coach Friedhelm Funkel as HSV Hamburg continue their pursuit of the Leeds United defender.
The Bundesliga club are searching for a replacement for Luka Vušković, who has completed a permanent move to Brighton after last season's successful loan spell in Hamburg.
Bornauw remains top defensive target
HSV have been linked with several centre-backs this summer, but Bornauw is believed to be one of the club's preferred options.
The 27-year-old managed just 12 Premier League appearances for Leeds United last season and is expected to leave Elland Road in search of more regular first-team football.
A move back to Germany has gathered momentum this week, with talks reportedly continuing between the parties.
Funkel gives glowing recommendation
Former 1. FC Köln manager Friedhelm Funkel, who previously coached Bornauw, believes HSV would be signing an outstanding professional.
"I'm keeping my fingers crossed for HSV."
Funkel praised both the defender's mentality and leadership qualities.
"Sebastian is a model professional with a 100 percent attitude."
He also highlighted Bornauw's strengths on the pitch.
"Sebastiaan is very strong in duels and in the air, and very reliable."
Confident he can replace Vušković
Replacing Vušković will not be straightforward after the Croatian impressed throughout last season.
However, Funkel is convinced Bornauw has the qualities to fill that void.
While acknowledging there is still room for improvement in his build-up play, the experienced coach believes the Belgian remains a dependable defender with further development ahead of him.
"HSV wouldn't be making a mistake."
Key Points
- HSV Hamburg continue to target Leeds United defender Sebastiaan Bornauw.
- Friedhelm Funkel has strongly endorsed the potential signing.
- Bornauw made only 12 Premier League appearances last season.
- HSV view him as a possible replacement for Luka Vušković.
- The Belgian is expected to seek regular first-team football this summer.
What's next?
HSV are expected to continue negotiations as they search for a replacement for Vušković. Leeds United remain open to Bornauw's departure, with the structure of any potential deal likely to determine whether an agreement can be reached before the transfer window closes.
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *