Since last summer, Leeds United have made an unwritten policy when it comes to transfers. The Whites are keen on signing players who choose a move to Elland Road.
It played a big role in how the club were able to convince the likes of Anton Stach and Dominic Calvert-Lewin last season.
And now, the club have taken a huge step as part of the 49ers vision. The ownership aim to make the team a consistent Premier League club going forward, with European ambition also in view.
Leeds signed Harry Wilson this summer, the former Fulham man scored 11 goals last season.
He joined the club as a free agent, and in one of his early interviews, he mentioned that he chose a club that ‘wanted’ him. This is a clear example of what this Leeds team is about now.
Leeds United target joins European club
Julian Brandt was also another free agent who was a major targets this summer.
There was a lot of genuine excitement when he was linked to Leeds United. His father and agent paid a visit to Thorp Arch over a week ago which increased the anticipation.
Leeds offered him a deal, and were waiting for his decision.
Welcome to Ajax, Julian Brandt!
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) July 31, 2026
But the former Borussia Dortmund man has now chosen Ajax as his next club. The 30-year old attacking midfielder has signed a three-year deal with the Dutch Eredivisie side.
In the end, the allure of European football was favourable over the Leeds United project.
READ MORE: Sporting director breaks silence on massive Leeds transfer deal
Ajax director reveals that talks has been going on ‘for months’
Ajax’s official signing of Julian Brandt includes some words from Sporting Director Jordi Cruyff.
He has revealed that talks had been going on behind the scenes ‘for months’ before this deal was sealed.
“Julian has chosen Ajax, and we are absolutely delighted about that. We have been in talks for several months, and he also had the opportunity to sign for other clubs. With Julian, we are bringing in a top international player with a wealth of experience and a fantastic mentality. I am convinced he will add real quality to our squad.”
Brandt chose another club over Leeds, which is well within his rights as a free agent.
But how he went about it is absolutely unprofessional, and now the 49ers have to move on to other targets and change their transfer plans.
