In the championship, Daniel Farke played with a system different from the one he uses now. Leeds United were one of the Championship’s best attacking unit.
A front four of Joel Piroe, Brenden Aaronson, Dan James and Manor Solomon scored more than 80 goals in the promotion campaign.
What was impressive about that season was Farke making use of the tools at his disposal. Before the campaign, he asked for signings including a profile of attacking midfielder; but when he did not get that, he trusted Aaronson in the role.
The American had his most productive season in Leeds colours with nine goals and two assists. The Whites wanted Gus Hamer, but Sheffield rejected their bids. Leeds also went through options like Fabio Carvalho and James McAtee.
Farke’s system is much more different now, with Leeds adapting to Premier League football.
49ers must facilitate Leeds deal for ‘sensational’ Rangers star
Nicolas Raskin. Credit: IMAGO
The club are now more pragmatic and combine a pressing style with a transition-heavy attack. And even with all this, Leeds United are able to defend efficiently.
But since last season, the club have lacked a real difference in the attack. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Lukas Nmecha and Noah Okafor did all the heavy lifting last year but they went missing in tough games.
Some teams found it easy to isolate the attackers, leaving the team toothless going forward. And Leeds’ run to start this season has shown how the club still lack an attacking spark.
It is mainly down to two things; the Whites do not have elite creators and they also lack finishers. Calvert-Lewin can do a job but when Leeds usually create through set pieces, the chances can dry up quickly.
Harry Wilson was brought in to solve the creativity problem, but has struggled himself.
The 49ers already have a solution waiting in 2027. Per Football Insider, Rangers midfielder Jicolas Raskin is keen to leave the club, but will wait for the summer.
Leeds’ owners can easily spin a deal to sign the Belgian star. When the summer arrives, he will have just one year on his deal and his price tag could be appealing.
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Nicolas Raskin is exactly what Farke needs
If Leeds cannot get another competent striker in the squad, then the cost effective method is to bring in a very good playmaker.
Nicolas Raskin fits the bill; he has had 11 goals and 19 assists in his last two seasons with Rangers.
The 25-year old is a very good passer and can pick out opponents with ease. He is also a goal threat near the box.
Raskin would provide flexibility for Farke; he can play deep in midfield or just behind the striker. A deal for him in 2027 looks like a no-brainer.
