Julian Brandt was a major target for Leeds United this summer, with the 49ers hopeful of a move for the attacking midfielder. His name being linked with a summer switch was enough to excite the fanbase.
The player was a free agent and made very good use of his time.
His father and agent visited clubs across Europe, being spotted in Spain first. They were then reported to have had talks with the Leeds officials at Thorp Arch over a move.
Nothing was confirmed, but everything that came out showed the attacking midfielder was leaning towards a Premier League switch.
Leeds United made him an offer, as well as other clubs across Europe, including Ajax.
Julian Brandt speaks after snubbing Leeds United move
Brandt’s future was made official on Friday, as he chose a move to the Dutch Eredivisie side.
During his official announcement, club Sporting Director Jordi Cruyff revealed that both sides had been in talks for several months since the season ended. The 30-year old said his first words to the club’s media.
“The past few days have been exciting. I’m happy to be here now.”
He then spoke about how the process started back in May.
”I started to have contact with Jordi [Cruyff] in May.”
”He put the interest of Ajax personally to me, I was really happy about the Interest. Ajax is a traditional club, a big club.”
”In May it was a bit early to speak about my decision this summer. I took my time to make a good decision and pick what I want, what project I wanted to join.”
Julian Brandt then indicated that he only came to a decision over the move this week.
”This week, we figured out all the details and if it was possible.”
”I made a decision, now I am here and I am super happy. I think my family and Jordi, we all are happy that this happened. Let’s see what this season has ready for us.”
READ MORE: Graham Smyth drops major transfer update as Leeds revive interest in £30m forward
Leeds are already looking at other targets
According to Graham Smyth, Leeds prepared for this scenario.
The Whites reportedly started lining up possible targets once they knew that Brandt was not joining the team for their US training camp. A familiar name has now emerged – Igor Paixao.
The Brazilian was strongly linked with a switch when Leeds were promoted.
Marseille swooped in and snatched up the forward in the final hours of the move, and the winger played in France last season.
But if the news is true, Julian Brandt snubbing the club could be what leads them to a better transfer decision.
Not got the talent for a real league
The simple fact is that he did not want to test himself in the best league in the world and taking his age into account it is probably the best decision for all involved.