Leeds United are in the market for reinforcements in the January transfer window. Their focus is on adding more goals and creativity to their squad.
Daniel Farke is feeling more secure in his job at Leeds following two solid results at home against Chelsea and Liverpool, respectively. He is now looking to build on this newfound confidence.
The Leeds manager has been clear that he needs more attacking thrust in his squad, and is eyeing the winter transfer window to bring in more forwards to boost their Premier League survival chances.
Leeds have already made moves on certain players ahead of the winter transfer window, and are learning about the possibilities of doing January deals.
Leeds United ‘blocked’ from signing Martin Baturina
Martin Baturina joined Como in the summer transfer window and is considered one of the brightest young attacking midfielders in Europe.
The 22-year-old, who has featured 15 times for Croatia, has been a bit-part player at Como this season and has played just 165 minutes of Serie A football across seven appearances.
| Competition | Appearances | Minutes |
|---|---|---|
| Serie A | 7 | 165 |
| Italy Cup | 2 | 92 |
| Total | 9 | 257 |
Leeds have approached Como and his agent, and have proposed to hold talks over signing the midfielder on a deal worth around the £21m the Italian club paid for him in the summer.
However, according to Italian outlet Tutto Mercato, Leeds are not finding any joy in talks over a deal to sign Baturina in the winter transfer window.
Como have blocked any deal to sell the midfielder in January, and are not interested in any deal for him in the middle of the season.
Despite his struggles this season, the Italian club still believe in the midfielder’s talent and have blocked any approach from Leeds.
Leeds still have time to find an opening in negotiations. However, for now, the Croatian is not available for a move in the winter transfer window.
What should be Leeds’ priorities in January?
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s recent form has eased some of the concerns around the forward options. However, Leeds still need a striker in Janaury.
The new formation demands two strikers up front, and Lukas Nmecha’s injury meant Noah Okafor, a winger, had to partner Calvert-Lewin against Liverpool.
Leeds need a striker to provide quality cover in the forward line as Joel Piroe appears to be struggling to convince Farke in the Premier League.
The Whites are also keen to sign an attacking midfielder. Ao Tanaka’s recent performances have highlighted the need for more midfield options who can be a threat in and around the penalty box.
It is unclear how much money Farke would have in January. However, he is now in a position to demand greater backing in the winter transfer window.
The Leeds boss has already shown that he can punch above his weight with a limited squad, and now needs some fresh faces in January to keep the momentum going.
