Why Leeds United Wanted Sebastiaan Bornauw
Leeds United have officially secured the signing of Belgian centre-back Sebastiaan Bornauw from VfL Wolfsburg, making him the club’s third new addition of the summer transfer window. Here’s everything Leeds fans need to know about their latest arrival at Elland Road.
Who is Sebastiaan Bornauw?
Sebastiaan Bornauw is a 26-year-old Belgian centre-back who stands at an imposing 1.91 metres. He came through the youth system at Anderlecht and made his professional debut in 2018. After impressing there, Bornauw moved to FC Köln in 2019 for £7 million, quickly establishing himself as a key figure in the Bundesliga. Two years later, he stepped up to VfL Wolfsburg for a reported £11.5 million. On the international stage, Bornauw has earned four senior caps for Belgium since 2020.
Leeds have reportedly paid around £5 million to bring him to Elland Road, where he will enter his prime and aim to make a major impact. His reported earnings at Wolfsburg were approximately £40,000 per week.
Form and Playing Style
Bornauw is known for his strong aerial presence and his threat from set-pieces. During the 2024–25 Bundesliga season, he made 15 appearances and scored twice, proving his value both defensively and offensively.
Defensively, Bornauw is composed under pressure and reads the game well, fitting perfectly into teams that build play from the back. While his main position is centre-back, he has also shown versatility by filling in at right-back when required. His physicality, ball skills, and tactical awareness make him an ideal fit for Daniel Farke’s possession-based style.
Fitness and Availability
While Bornauw’s 2024–25 campaign was disrupted by foot and calf injuries, limiting his time on the pitch, his overall experience remains impressive. He boasts 140 Bundesliga appearances over six seasons. At just 26, Bornauw brings top-flight experience and leadership potential to Leeds’ defensive line. Staying fit will be key for him to provide the stability Leeds need.
What This Signing Means for Leeds
Bornauw’s arrival significantly strengthens Leeds’ defence ahead of their Premier League return. Defensive inconsistency was a concern last season, and Bornauw’s mix of experience, size, and composure could help resolve that.
His signing is also expected to coincide with at least one central defender leaving, with Max Wöber the most likely to move on. The Austrian spent last season on loan and isn’t in Daniel Farke’s long-term plans, meaning Bornauw will step into that role as a more permanent and Premier League-ready option.
With his international experience and Bundesliga pedigree, Bornauw could take on a leadership role at Elland Road, guiding the squad through the challenges of the top flight. His comfort on the ball and ability to play out from the back align perfectly with Farke’s tactical philosophy.
Fan Takeaway
Leeds fans have plenty to be optimistic about with Bornauw’s signing, though caution remains due to his recent injury issues. If he can maintain fitness and form, he offers the attributes to become a commanding presence at the heart of Leeds’ defence.
This signing also continues Leeds’ clear trend of bringing in tall, physical players who add strength and presence defensively and offensively. Bornauw fits that mould perfectly, complementing the squad and helping Leeds compete physically in the Premier League.
While not a headline-grabbing signing on the wider European stage, this move could prove to be a clever, low-risk acquisition with significant upside. For a newly promoted side aiming to make a statement, Sebastiaan Bornauw could be just the kind of player to help Leeds not only survive but thrive.
