Leeds United could find themselves in trouble as one of their transfer targets in January is gradually getting out of reach.
Daniel Farke will be frustrated that the team have not moved to strengthen a depleted squad. Leeds have battled with injuries and absences throughout this season but have still managed to piece together a good run of results.
Leeds lost key players to Premier League clubs during the summer window, and just over two months into the season they lost two of their key players due to injury. Ethan Ampadu and Illia Gruev both picked up serious knee injuries that have kept them out for a while this season. The duo are expected to be out for the rest of 2024.
Daniel Farke also lost star signing Largie Ramazani to an ankle injury, but he looks to be ahead of schedule and could return right after the international break.
QUIZ: Can you name the Leeds game these 10 goal celebrations are from?
Leeds United face transfer concern
Credit: Imago Images
With Ampadu and Gruev out for the short term, Leeds have had to rely on Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell this campaign. Tanaka has proved to be a bargain signing, and has already won player of the month for October. There is still a need for another midfielder, and Daniel Farke may push for a signing in January.
Manchester City star James McAtee has been linked with Leeds United over the past few weeks. The youngster is reportedly open to leave on loan for more playing time. The stumbling block for Leeds United is that, more than 12 clubs are seriously interested in signing the England U21 international according to Caught Offside.
Fulham, West Ham, Southampton, Lille, Celtic, Girona, Stuttgart and Feyenoord all want to take the 22-year old on loan this January, with some even considering a permanent deal.
Bad news for the club
Leeds United will now have to compete with Premier League teams, Ligue 1 sides and Champions League clubs for the signature of James McAtee. It is not impossible for the youngster to arrive at Elland Road in January, but it is going to be a very tough fight to convince him to join.
However, if Leeds have a good financial package and can guarantee Premier League promotion, it might sway the Manchester City star.
