Good Morning. It's Friday 24th January, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Farke's 180 degree U-turn in transfer market confuses fans
Speaking ahead of their crucial top-of-the-table encounter with Burnley, Leeds Manager Daniel Farke has performed a complete 180 degree u-turn regarding their aspirations in the transfer market this month! For weeks now, the Leeds gaffer has all but categorically denied the arrival of new players, but with just over a week left until the transfer window slams shut, has spoken of strengthening in three particular areas.
Recent injuries to Pascal Struijk and Patrick Bamford have caused Leeds to re-think their strategy regarding reinforcements at centre back and the number 9 role. He spoke also about providing competition for playmaker Brenden Aaronson. Farke's about turn will confuse and probably anger some Leeds fans who will be critical that the club have left it late in the day to go about their business. Why would the club gamble on last minute bargains when a cash pot of £300m is up for grabs?
At the moment we have two fit strikers: Joel Piroe and Mateo Joseph. It would be outstanding to have Patrick Bamford available in full rhythm. He will be out for two weeks more. We will assess the centre-back and striker position. The rule is quite clear: the quality has to be right, we won’t add just a number. It has to be proper quality then the character has to fit to the group, attitude on top level and the third thing is the player is affordable. Three things need to come together to make a signing.
If there’s a solution we’ll do this. I can rule out there is a player on the 31st January, or his club has agreed a transfer fee or loan fee with four clubs, and he chooses who pays the highest salary, I don’t believe in this. “I want proper quality and determination and fully committed to what we want to achieve here at Leeds United.
If there is a creative offensive player out there like a No. 10 it could be beneficial for our group. Brenden is excellent in this position but we don’t have a similar player like him in our group. We have players who can play this role, Joel Piroe as a loose striker or wingers in this role, they interpret it differently.
If there is a solution for a creative midfield player, it makes sense to stay awake. “Yes it would be good to add different attributes but overall the January market is not that easy. Not like you can be unbelievably picky but we will be picky with the three boxes that have to be ticked. If we can tick all three it would be good to have something a bit dissimilar to what Brenden offers, yes.
Speculation grows regarding Iheanacho arrival
Reports that striker Kelechi Iheanacho is on the verge of a move to Elland Road are gathering traction, following a new development at current club Sevilla. The 28-year-old's current situation is far from ideal, having been deemed surplus to requirements just six months after joining the La Liga side from Leicester City. Despite a solid scoring record in the Copa del Rey, limited game time totaling just 400 minutes, has fueled speculation of his departure.
Last time out, the Nigerian International played a crucial role for the Foxes, contributing six goals and three assists in just 1100 minutes of action. His blend of power, technical ability and a knack for finding the net, could be a significant boost for Leeds in their quest for automatic promotion. The impending arrival of Akor Adams at Sevilla (from Montpellier) further solidifies the likelihood of Iheanacho's exit. He's been omitted from their entire squad in the last couple of games, a tell-tale sign his services are not wanted. If he is available on loan, surely it's a no brainer?
