Leeds United have been active in the transfer window ahead of the deadline. After signing three players within the past week, the Whites are closing in on a deal for St. Gallen defender Isaac Schmidt.
Leeds were targeting a defender according to Graham Smyth, and Schmidt reportedly arrived in England yesterday to complete a deal:
“Leeds United’s Ao Tanaka deal to be announced tomorrow but sounds done. Isaac Schmidt to fly over in the morning.
And then we’ll see if they can deliver anything else to finish a difficult window on a real high note.”
Smyth also added on X, that Schmidt would compete with Jayden Bogle:
“Permanent deal for Schmidt. 24-year-old right-back. Would be seen as competition for Bogle. Byram cover for Firpo and for RB too obviously if needs be.”
Who is Isaac Schmidt?
Schmidt is a 24-year old fullback who plays for St. Gallen in the Swiss Super League. He joined St. Gallen from Lausanne-Sport in 2021 and has made over a 100 appearances for the club. Schmidt has also represented Switzerland at youth level.
He can play right back and left back, which means he will provide cover and competition for both positions. Currently, Jayden Bogle, Sam Byram and Junior Firpo are the senior options at fullback for Leeds United.
Schmidt seals European qualification for St. Gallen
On Thursday night, Isaac Schmidt scored as St. Gallen qualified for the group stages of the Europa Conference League, beating Turkish side Trabzonspor on penalties.
Swiss outlet Blick reports that St. Gallen will receive around €5.5million including bonuses for the Schmidt deal. The report also claims that the initial fee for Schmidt, would be less than €4.5million – the fee Zurich received for Wilfried Gnonto.
Daniel Farke wants more additions
In a press conference, Leeds United boss Daniel Farke said the club will be looking into adding a fullback after completing the Tanaka deal. This confirms the move for Schmidt:
“We definitely need a midfield addition and full-back. We stay awake in the offensive positions.
Other clubs are involved so I never speak about players who are not with us.”
The Leeds boss also remained tight lipped on any business ahead of the transfer deadline:
“I speak about players who under contract for us. I always respect players who are under contract at other clubs.
We have confirmed two important signings for us this week. I can speak about Ramazani and Solomon as they are here.
I hope there will be business in the next couple of days. I won’t speak about rumours.”
