£26m Leeds transfer could collapse after just five minutes of action

Leeds United need more quality in the final third, yet one of their summer arrivals is struggling to get anywhere near enough football to make an impression. As Daniel Farke looks for ways to make his side more dangerous, the lack of opportunities for a young attacking talent raises uncomfortable questions about the club’s recruitment plans.

The situation is particularly intriguing because Leeds have a substantial financial commitment hanging over the deal. What was meant to be a chance to bring in a promising player could still leave his long-term future at Elland Road uncertain.

For now, the biggest obstacle is simple: he cannot prove himself if he barely gets on the pitch.

Read More: The Leeds players who could change the January shopping list

Jean-Matteo Bahoya has barely featured for Leeds

Jean-Matteo Bahoya joined Leeds on loan with an obligation to buy for around £26m if he reaches a specified number of appearances. However, the Frenchman has made just two substitute appearances in the Premier League, totalling only five minutes.

That is hardly enough time to settle into a game, let alone show Farke what he can offer. Bahoya arrived with the promise of pace and attacking threat, but he has had little chance to show those qualities in English football.

The lack of involvement is difficult to ignore, particularly when Leeds have struggled to create and convert chances. Farke needs more attacking options, yet he has so far been reluctant to turn to a youngster who could offer something different.

There may be reasons behind that caution. Bahoya is still adapting to a new league, and the manager might want more time in training before trusting him with a bigger role. But with Leeds searching for a spark, the 20-year-old’s continued absence is becoming a talking point.

Read More: Contract details emerge over Leeds star’s future – clause could be triggered soon

Leeds face a costly decision over Bahoya

The appearance clause adds another layer. If Bahoya reaches the required number of games, Leeds would be committed to paying around £26m to make his move permanent. If he continues to feature only in fleeting cameos, that threshold could remain out of reach.

It is not yet clear whether Farke sees Bahoya as part of his long-term plans. The lack of minutes does not necessarily mean the manager has given up on him, but it does suggest the youngster has significant work to do to earn his trust.

Leeds cannot afford to waste attacking options while struggling for goals, especially if they have already identified a player they believe can improve the team. Bahoya needs opportunities to show what he can do, and Farke needs to decide whether he is ready to provide them.

If the Frenchman remains on the fringes, the £26m deal could fail to materialise. That might spare Leeds a major financial commitment, but it would also leave them questioning whether they have properly assessed a player they brought in to strengthen their attack.