Union Berlin Eyes Zeno Van Den Bosch as Potential Defensive Addition

Union Berlin is reportedly interested in 22-year-old center-back Zeno Van Den Bosch as a potential defensive reinforcement this winter. The Royal Antwerp player was previously linked with a move to the Bundesliga during the last summer transfer window.

The club needs to closely monitor the availability of center-backs, especially if either Danilho Doekhi or Diogo Leite departs during the current January transfer window. Both players are on expiring contracts, providing Union with a final opportunity to capitalize on their considerable market value. Doekhi is currently being linked with two Premier League clubs, while Leite missed most of the summer training camp due to a transfer request, remaining at Union only after a last-minute deal fell apart.

Florenz is reportedly keen to make a significant investment in Leite. It is essential to note that both Doekhi and Leite can negotiate lucrative deals with other clubs during the January window. There is a possibility that neither player wants to be in a situation where they have to discuss terms with Union, preferring instead to control their career trajectory.

Of the two, Doekhi seems the more likely candidate to move this month. Few players would decline a chance to play in the English Premier League, regardless of the club expressing interest. Should Doekhi secure a move to England, it would suggest that experienced FCU managing director Horst Heldt is serious about acquiring Van Den Bosch.

Premier League fans looking to scout the Dutch center-back may be interested to know that Doekhi made a strong start to 2026, almost scoring what would have been his seventh goal of the season in a 2-2 draw against Mainz, with Union substitute Marin Ljubicic assisting his effort.

The only factor that might keep Doekhi in Köpenick this season is his excellent form at Union Berlin. He expressed enthusiasm in the mixed zone after the match, commending head coach Steffen Baumgart for his tactical adjustments that enabled Union to exert more pressure and perform better.

Baumgart’s decision to utilize Doekhi in a semi-striker role during late-game situations and set-pieces has contributed significantly to his current goal tally. It remains uncertain whether he would replicate this success elsewhere, leading to the possibility that Doekhi may opt for a free transfer to an EPL club of his choice after the season, while Van Den Bosch could potentially join Union on a free transfer as well.