Leeds United head into the January transfer window with a clearer sense of direction, targeting reinforcements at both ends of the pitch as they look to strengthen their bid for Premier League survival.
An upturn in results has brought greater stability to the campaign and eased some of the pressure on Daniel Farke, but questions remain over the side’s effectiveness in key areas. There are concerns over the lack of cover at both ends of the pitch.
Tactical adjustments have heightened that need. The shift to a 5-3-2 system has increased reliance on a dependable goalscorer, while also placing greater demands on the back line, with limited depth across both units underlining the urgency for reinforcements.
However, Leeds are also facing the pressure of losing one or two key players. Daniel Farke has ruled out selling anyone from his squad, but that is not deterring suitors.
FC Koln push to sign Leeds United defender Sebastiaan Bornauw in January
Joe Rodon’s injury allowed Sebastiaan Bornauw a run in the team, and he was impressive as part of a back three at Leeds until the Welshman returned to the team in the 4-3 defeat at Newcastle.
However, the Belgian has been linked with a return to his former club FC Koln, who are considering making a move for him in the winter transfer window.
And Koln vice president Ulf Sobek has indicated that the club are prepared to wait until the end of the transfer window to sign the Leeds star this month.
Sobek told German daily Express: “I don’t expect us to pull any more players out of the hat before the Heidenheim match.
“It’s incredibly difficult to bring in players in the winter. However, we still have until the end of January to act. Often, options arise that aren’t currently available.
“Whether the needs will be met by then is a decision for the coach and the sporting director. I hope that we will have achieved some positive results by then. In any case, we should express our confidence in the lads who are here.”
The 49ers must be more decisive with their decisions
Rodon’s injury has exposed the paucity of options at the back for Leeds, and the squad are down to three fit senior centre-backs at the moment.
Daniel Farke wants to add one centre-back to his squad rather than lose one before the end of the January transfer window.
| Games played | 6 |
|---|---|
| Minutes played | 256 |
There may be a temptation to cash in on Bornauw on the back of a good run in the team, but a replacement must be signed before they lose him this month.
The Union Berlin defender Danilho Doekhi has been linked with a move to Leeds. The 49ers must push to secure a deal to sign him as soon as possible this month.
Leeds cannot afford to dither on this deal and risk losing Bornauw at the end of the transfer window without a replacement signed.
Farke will veto any move to sell Bornauw or anyone in his squad unless a replacement is lined up.
The Belgian is almost certain to start in the FA Cup clash against Derby County this weekend.
