Leeds United have confirmed the arrival of Harry Wilson, who has joined the Whites on a free transfer after leaving Fulham this summer
Wilson was on the verge of signing for Leeds last summer on deadline day before Fulham pulled the plug on a deal at the last minute, and he stayed at Craven Cottage.
He had a brilliant last season at Fulham but refused to sign a new contract once it became clear that Marco Silva would not be staying at the West London club.
Leeds had to wait for a year to get a deal over the line, but they finally have their man, and he is now a Leeds player before the squad reassembles for pre-season this month.
Harry Wilson joins Leeds
He could have been a Leeds player on deadline day last summer, but after less than a year, he has arrived at Elland Road as a key signing for Daniel Farke.
A statement on the club’s official site read: “Leeds United are delighted to announce the signing of exciting forward Harry Wilson, who joins the club following the expiry of his contract at fellow Premier League side Fulham.
“Arriving at Elland Road on a four-year-deal, Wilson becomes our first signing of the summer transfer window, having chosen to join the Whites over several offers from elsewhere.”
It further added: “His 69 caps while representing Wales has seen him play at EURO 2020 and the 2022 World Cup, whilst also having an international hat-trick to his name which came in a 7-1 thumping of North Macedonia. He now links back up with some notable international teammates, this time in the white shirt of Leeds United.
“Everyone at the club would like to welcome Harry to Elland Road and we look forward to seeing him in action when the new season gets underway.”
He fits what Daniel Farke wants from his attack
Leeds United’s biggest issue last season was not getting into good positions, but making the most of them.
Daniel Farke built a side that was well organised, difficult to play against and dangerous on the counter-attack. However, whenever Leeds had to dictate games and break down deep defences, they often lacked the creativity and quality needed in the final third.
That goes a long way towards explaining why the 49ers are pushing to bring in players such as Harry Wilson and Julian Brandt this summer.
Both can unlock defences and provide the spark Leeds have been missing. The Whites have no shortage of hard-working midfielders and energetic box-to-box players, but they are crying out for someone who can consistently create chances and add goals from advanced areas.
Wilson, in particular, looks tailor-made for that role. His return of 11 goals and eight assists for a Fulham side that struggled for consistency last season shows the sort of impact he is capable of making.
His versatility is another major asset. Whether used as an attacking midfielder, out wide or in a more advanced role, Wilson would give Farke greater tactical flexibility and another genuine match-winner in the final third.
