With just over a week left till the January window closes, Leeds United have been very active. Per reports, fans are expecting at least one more addition before the end of the month.
The Whites wrapped up a deal for Brighton star Facundo Buonanotte; the deal was completed within days of the news emerging. The Argentine had to cut short his loan deal at Chelsea to make the transfer possible. Buonanotte pushed for the move, believing that he can be a big part of the first team under Daniel Farke.
It is also believed that a striker could be next on the list, with the club having made an enquiry for Wolves star Jorgen Strand Larsen. The Norwegian international is said to be valued around £40 million, but there is belief that Leeds can strike a deal.
Leeds United should not move for Romano Schmid
Another player the club have been heavily linked to over this past week is Romano Schmid. News emerged that the Whites were keen on adding the Werder Bremen star this month. There were reports that both clubs had entered talks over a deal, but nothing seems to have materialized yet. There could be a chance that the transfer is not completed at all.
And this would be the best option for the 49ers. Signing another attacking midfielder on a permanent deal when you just added Facundo Buonanotte on loan makes close to zero sense. The Whites have adequate options in attacking areas, and need more goalscorers than playmakers at this point of the campaign. Schmid and Buonanotte are very similar players, and it would be a waste to spend money on both.
| Player | Games | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facundo Buonanotte | 8 | 1 | 2 |
| Romano Schmid | 18 | 2 | 5 |
Other areas in the squad need more focus
The club have added an attacking midfielder who can play wide and in central areas. Buonanotte can create and score, so will be a huge boost for the team overall. Spending £13 million on a similar player makes zero sense at this point of the season.
Especially with the defence needing cover, and the Whites needing another striker. Joe Rodon’s injury showed how thin the depth at center back was, and Leeds targeting Jorgen Strand Larsen shows that the club know they need another source of goals. Using the funds meant for the Schmidt deal in either of these scenarios would be a way better use of money.