Leeds set to complete bargain Bornauw signing
01 Jul 2025 08:40 am, by Adam Ternent
Good Morning. It's Tuesday 1st July, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Leeds set to complete bargain Bornauw signing
Leeds United are on the verge of adding significant defensive reinforcement with the imminent arrival of Wolfsburg centre-back Sebastiaan Bornauw. The towering Belgian is scheduled for a medical at Thorp Arch on Tuesday morning, following a slight delay in his travel plans on Monday.
The Whites have reportedly agreed a bargain £5.1 million fee for the 26-year-old, marking a potentially shrewd piece of business in the current transfer market. If all goes according to plan with the medical, Bornauw is expected to sign a four-year contract at Elland Road.
Bornauw brings a wealth of experience to the Leeds squad, having amassed over 140 appearances in the Bundesliga. He’s also demonstrated a surprising knack for finding the back of the net, scoring 11 goals during his time in Germany. This aerial threat in the final third will undoubtedly be a welcome addition to Leeds' attacking options from set-pieces. He's renowned as being one of the best headers of the ball in the entire Bundesliga over the past few seasons.
While injury and illness limited Bornauw to around 700 minutes of Bundesliga action last season, it's important to remember that such setbacks are an inherent part of the sport. The Leeds medical team will undoubtedly be thorough in their examination, ensuring he's physically ready to contribute to the team.
Despite the interrupted season, his underlying statistics suggest a player with considerable potential. His XG (expected goals) data indicates that he could have potentially scored eight goals had he maintained full fitness. This highlights his attacking prowess and ability to get into dangerous positions.
With four caps for the Belgium national team, Bornauw also brings international experience to the table. Fans will be hoping he can quickly adapt to the demands of the top flight and become a key figure in the team's survival. The signing of Sebastiaan Bornauw represents a significant step forward for the Whites as they look to strengthen for life in the Premier League.
Signings indicate tactical shift
As the countdown to pre-season training at Thorp Arch draws near, Leeds recent transfer activity hints at a significant tactical shift. The acquisitions of Nmecha, Bornauw, and Bijol—towering figures known for their aerial dominance and physical presence—suggest a change from the club's ground-based, possession-oriented style.
For years, Leeds have prioritised keeping the ball on the deck and dictating play through intricate passing sequences, even before their Championship return in 2022/23. However, the profile of these new signings indicates a potential move towards a more robust and direct approach.
Nmecha, Bornauw, and Bijol are not players easily intimidated. Their imposing stature and strength suggest a team ready to battle for every ball, win aerial duels, and impose themselves physically on opponents. This emphasis on physicality, work rate and aerial threats could prove crucial in their bid to avoid the drop.
It's still early days, but these signings indicate a change of formation, perhaps with a solid back three, providing a foundation of defensive stability. With these towering players at the back, Leeds could become a formidable force in both boxes, capable of defending crosses effectively and posing a significant threat from set-pieces - all we need now is someone to deliver them!
