Leeds United could dip into the January window to make some key transfers in just over six weeks. The team are not in the best of form currently, and it could be worse in the next month looking at their upcoming fixtures.
There are rumours flying around that Daniel Farke could be gone as early as the first week of December. Leeds face Aston Villa, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool in their next four games. The reality is that they are unlikely to pick up any points against these teams, but Farke will be hoping their home form counts for something during this run.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Goals | 10 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 12.7 |
| Big Chances Created | 22 |
| Goals Conceded | 20 |
| Expected Goals Conceded (xGA) | 14.6 |
| Clean Sheets | 3 |
If the German fails to get something out of these games, he will be sacked and Leeds will most likely be in the relegation zone heading into the January window.
Leeds United lineup if January targets sign
The club has been linked with some serious names in January, especially attackers. Leeds have struggled with goalscoring this season, with some players failing to convert chances in key moments in games. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who was signed to solve the goalscoring problem, has missed the most big chances in the team this season. The former England striker has missed four of his five big chances this season.
But if they are able to pull off some huge signings, this lineup will be good enough to survive the Premier League. Below we look at what the team could look like if Leeds United transfer rumours can be made a reality as they sign their January transfer targets.
GK – Lucas Perri
The Brazilian had a shaky start to the season, but settled before he got injured. Since returning he has showed signs of being a solid keeper, his efforts have helped Leeds not to be embarrassed in recent games.
RB – Jayden Bogle
One of the most consistent performers this season, the fullback continues to show how good he is. Bogle will only get better as the season goes on.
CB – Joe Rodon
Rodon has been the standout in defence, and will continue to keep his place in the team despite the current defensive record.
CB – Pascal Struijk
Struijk compliments Rodon better than Jaka Bijol does. He is also lighter on his feet than the Slovenian which helps in defending high up the pitch.
LB – Gabriel Gudmundsson
The Swedish international has quietly been one of the better performers this season. He has made the role his own since his first game.
CM – Ethan Ampadu
Despite his poor run of form in recent games, Ampadu is the best option to anchor this midfield. His defensive ability is among the best in the Premier League this season.
CM – Anton Stach
A standout summer signing, the German has impressed even with his dip in form. He has excelled in the more attacking role Daniel Farke gave him this season.
CM – Sean Longstaff
Longstaff has provided quality and experience in the middle of the park. His ability from dead balls has also won the team some points this season.
LW – Manor Solomon
Leeds bringing in Solomon would mean Noah Okafor moves to the bench. But the Spurs man just has too much quality not to be starting.
RW – Brandon Thomas-Asante
Coventry City top scorer Brandon Thomas-Asante is a serious goal threat from wide areas, and also has immense work rate. Would easily fit in this Leeds side.
CF – Daizen Maeda
Maeda is the ideal striker for this Leeds side, even though Farke might lose height and aerial duels. The 28-year old scores goals and can create a lot of shots with his movement and dynamism.
| Player | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|
| Daizen Maeda | 3 | 2 |
| Manor Solomon | 1 | 4 |
| Brandon Thomas-Asante | 10 | 3 |
A new front three of Manor Solomon, Brandon Thomas-Asante and Daizen Maeda is the way to go. All three are great in front of goal and most importantly, they provide a lot of dynamism. Noah Okafor was the only Leeds player who has looked likely to make things happen in attack this season, and these three can provide that at a higher level. These transfers also move Okafor, Calvert-Lewin and Aaronson to the bench, which makes a lot of sense – the trio would be better as substitute options rather than starters.
The midfield is a solid unit with a lot of quality, so not a lot of changes needed there. Those three have handled themselves well all season. Leeds’ back four have also done well despite the goals they have conceded this season. But they are much better on paper, having conceded just 14.60 expected goals this season. Take out the last two games and the Arsenal hammering, Leeds actually have one of the best defences in the Premier League. Swapping Struijk for Bijol was a disaster and with Pascal back in and Perri settling more in goal, Leeds should be able to become defensively better as the season goes on.
The big thing Leeds need to stay up though is goals. By making three January signings in the attacking area of the pitch, Farke’s men should be able to have the quality and strength in the forward positions to score the goals they need to stay in the Premier League.
It’s a pity the board didn’t back a top striker 1st & then decided on where else needed Add ons!