Leeds United manager Daniel Farke strengthened his midfield this week by signing Josuha Guilavogui, bringing in a veteran player to support the team for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
Guilavogui will act as a backup for Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell, ready to step in when they need a break, face suspension, or if injuries occur. The move comes after injuries to key players Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev, prompting Leeds to explore the free-agent market.
Ampadu and Gruev are vital to Daniel Farke’s plans, and their absence has posed significant challenges. Guilavogui has recently been at Thorp Arch, working on his fitness and finalizing the details of his signing, marking his first opportunity to play in England.
He officially completed his deal on Wednesday and has received EFL clearance, making him a confirmed Leeds United player. Joining on a free transfer, his contract is reportedly valued at around £1 million, with a weekly salary of £20,000, and he will stay with the club until the end of the 2024-25 season.
Pundit weighs in on the signing of Josuha Guilavogui to bolster Daniel Farke promotion hopes
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Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Dan Bardell suggests that the former France international made the signing with the backing of manager Daniel Farke, leveraging insights gained during his time in the Bundesliga.
“They wanted something in the midfield area, that is clear,” Bardell told MOT Leeds News. “He’s a player, from looking at his history in Germany, that Daniel Farke knows or has been aware of, which is a good thing because it means he has the manager’s approval.
“Leeds needed to do something in the midfield so I don’t think it can be accused of being a panic signing, they’re were just in a difficult situation.”
Guilavogui played for Mainz 05 in the Bundesliga last season, and with his contract now expired, he’s a free agent. The move to Leeds United marks an exciting new chapter in his career.
“I have never played in England and I think as a football player this is a really amazing experience and for playing for Leeds, a historic club, this is a wonderful opportunity for me,” Guilavogui told LUTV.
“I am looking forward to training with the team, to help the team on the pitch, outside the pitch as well and hopefully that we set our goals. I had some offers, but nothing that I would say, okay, let’s do it. And when my agent called me and said that Daniel has interest to sign me and watched over me, I said, yeah, let’s go straight, straight to Leeds.”
