Leeds United announced the arrival of Harry Wilson on a free transfer this week and are keen to add more attacking depth to their squad this summer.
The 29-year-old winger signed a four-year contract with the club, and Daniel Farke played a key role in convincing him to move to Elland Road despite other lucrative offers on the table.
Farke remains committed to adding a bit more flair and attacking depth to his Leeds squad this summer, and he is continuing to push for a deal to sign Julian Brandt on a free transfer.
The 30-year-old German playmaker is a free agent after his contract expired at Borussia Dortmund last month, and he is one of Leeds’ top targets ahead of the new season.
Graham Smyth reveals the latest on Leeds United’s pursuit of Julian Brandt
The Yorkshire Evening Post journalist confirmed that Leeds are still very much in the race to sign the German playmaker in the ongoing transfer window.
However, he expects this transfer saga to drag on as Leeds have other priority positions to fill and Brandt is also in no rush to make a decision this summer.
He feels Leeds will also wait for the German to conclude that a move to Elland Road would be his best option ahead of next season.
Smyth said on the Inside Elland Road podcast: “I feel like this one will rumble a bit longer before either party makes a decision.
“I think Leeds probably have more pressing issues, with the greatest respect to a Champions League veteran who is obviously an unbelievably talented player.
“In terms of Leeds, there are like priority positions that need sorting.
“Goalkeeper is one that we keep coming back to; they need another striker to put some pressure on Dominic Calvert-Lewin, centre-back, left-back cover and central midfield.
“With Wilson in the building, it also makes the Brandt thing a bit less of an urgent matter.
“Also on his behalf, if he has been shopped around then I think maybe he comes to a position where he thinks Leeds are my best option.
“I can see that rumbling on for a bit; I have certainly not picked up anything to suggest that something is imminent.”
The player may have a preference
Leeds United have not given up hope of signing Julian Brandt and remain in regular contact with the German’s representatives as they try to convince him that Elland Road is the right next step in his career.
The Whites know this is one of the toughest deals they will attempt this summer. Brandt is attracting interest from several Champions League clubs, allowing him to continue playing at the highest level of European football.
Having spent most of his career competing in the Champions League, it is easy to understand why those offers appeal to him. Even so, Leeds believe the chance to test himself in the Premier League could prove just as tempting.
The club are still very much in the race for the Germany international, but they are also realistic about the challenge ahead. With strong competition for his signature, getting the deal over the line will be anything but easy.
