Leeds United went on a signing spree during the summer transfer window, bringing in 10 new players to Elland Road. The club spent close to £100million this summer with major investment in the defence and midfield.
Fans were frustrated that the team did not divert any of the funds into signing a big name attacker. Leeds spent most of the summer chasing some top targets like Bilal El Khannouss and Rodrigo Muniz, but failed to deliver any of them. The Whites also failed with a deadline day move to sign Fulham’s Harry Wilson.
Daniel Farke asked for reinforcements but only ended up with two free transfers and Noah Okafor. The club’s attack recently started firing on all cylinders after a slow start to the season. After just one open play goal in four games, Leeds have scored five goals in their last two against Wolves and Bournemouth.
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Why Leeds United turned down the chance to sign Manor Solomon
Credit: Imago
At some point in the summer, Manor Solomon was once again on the table. The Spurs winger spent last season on loan at Elland Road, and was a huge factor in promotion scoring 10 goals and provided 12 assists in all competitions. When the season ended, many fans wanted the club to sign him on a permanent deal, but he eventually joined Villarreal.
Adam Pope has now revealed that Leeds did have the chance to bring back Solomon, before opting to sign Noah Okafor.
“The situation with Solomon is that I understand Leeds United could have had him back on loan for a second spell from Spurs, but decided to buy Noah Okafor from AC Milan instead.” he said via BBC Sport.
“Solomon’s injury record in recent seasons, I believe, was a consideration why United were inclined not to seek a permanent deal for the Israel international.”
Did the club make the right choice?
Leeds moved on from Mateo Joseph and Largie Ramazani, loaning them out as they were not in Daniel Farke’s plans. The Whites eventually decided on Noah Okafor who looks to be having a decent start to life at Elland Road.
It is very early in the season, but Okafor has shown promise. Manor Solomon has already registered a goal and assist for Villarreal. Ultimately, how both players finish the season will determine which signing was a better option.
