Early interest in 27-year-old central midfielder Ao Tanaka has come from three German clubs, with Schalke and Hannover, both strong contenders for promotion to the Bundesliga, leading the interest. It is reported that current Bundesliga side Union Berlin also has a tentative interest, though Tanaka is just one of several midfield options they are considering. If either Schalke or Hannover achieves promotion, they would be in a favorable position to intensify their efforts to sign the Japan international. Leeds United are open to his departure and would not rule out a sale if a proposal is considered to be in their best interests, with the club's divisional status next season also potentially being a factor. Tanaka, who feels he is good enough to play at the top level and remains highly regarded in Germany, could be sold for a significant profit by Leeds, with whom he is contracted until June 2028. The midfielder joined Leeds in August 2024, has earned 35 caps for Japan, scoring 8 goals, and has made 21 appearances and scored 2 goals in the current Premier League season. His market value is currently estimated at €10.00m by Transfermarkt.