Schmidt's Leeds future in doubt as agent highlights WC ambition

Good Morning. It's Wednesday 2nd July, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...


Schmidt's Leeds future in doubt as agent highlights World Cup ambition

Just ten months after arriving at Elland Road with high hopes, the future of Leeds defender Isaac Schmidt is already uncertain. The player's agent, Baykal Bellusci, has publicly opened the door for a summer transfer, citing the crucial need for regular first-team football ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Leeds secured his services from Swiss club St Gallen last summer in a deal worth a reported £4.5 million. However, despite the investment, the versatile full-back was largely on the periphery, struggling to secure a consistent spot under Daniel Farke. This lack of game time has now created a significant dilemma as the club prepares for its return to the Premier League.

The timing of the agent's comments highlights a growing pressure point for the player. Despite being overlooked at club level, Schmidt earned call-ups to the Switzerland national team in both March and June, keeping his international aspirations alive.

With Switzerland likely to participate in the upcoming World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, continuing as a backup player is not a viable option for a footballer entering his prime. Speaking to the Swiss publication Blick, Bellusci laid out the situation in no uncertain terms.

Isaac played as a left-back for a long time, and we discussed with the club [St. Gallen] that there was a larger market for the right-back position,” he told Swiss newspaper Blick. “The decision to switch Isaac to the right led to the transfer [to Leeds] and his call-up to the national team.

He has developed, matured as a player, and proven himself with the national team. In a World Cup year, the top priority shouldn’t be to focus on finances. Instead, it’s all about one thing: Where can I play the most games to prove myself? I’m convinced we’ll find a very good solution for him this summer.

Wober on the move

The signing of versatile centre-back Sebastiaan Bornauw is set to be the catalyst for change in the Leeds United defence, effectively paving the way for Max Wöber’s departure from Elland Road this summer.

Wöber’s tenure at Leeds appears to be drawing to a close, with his relationship with the fanbase having soured significantly when deserting the club in their hour of need . Many supporters have been unable to look past the 27-year-old’s decision to leave on loan following the club's relegation at the end of the 22/23 season.

His subsequent return did little to mend the rift, largely due to persistent injury problems that kept the Austrian international sidelined for significant periods last season. While flashes of the commanding form that initially impressed upon his arrival from Salzburg were visible, these moments were too infrequent. For manager Daniel Farke, Wöber's unreliability makes him a difficult piece to fit into the demanding puzzle of a Premier League campaign.

With interest reportedly coming from his former club, Red Bull Salzburg, as well as several Bundesliga teams, a permanent move seems inevitable. A transfer fee in the region of £5 million is being discussed, which would bring a definitive end to Wöber's complicated and ultimately frustrating chapter at Leeds United.





New top leaked

Images circulating online have offered Leeds fans a tantalising glimpse into a new era at Elland Road, showcasing the purported home shirt for the 2025-26 season. The leaked design signals a classic feel with modern flourishes.

The kit is built on an iconic, predominantly white base, staying true to Leeds United's historic identity. The standout feature is a unique blue and yellow "lowfields" pattern that adorns the collar and sleeve cuffs, adding a bespoke and vibrant touch that is sure to be a talking point among supporters.

Manufacturer Adidas makes its mark with a clean, contrasting blue for both its signature three stripes on the shoulders and the logo on the right breast. Taking pride of place on the left is the cherished Leeds United badge.

Marking the most significant change, the centre of the shirt is dominated by the new Red Bull sponsor logo. This design represents a fusion of tradition and a bold new commercial direction. While awaiting official confirmation, these initial images suggest a sharp, modern kit that respects the past while marching confidently into the future.