Leeds United fans were very frustrated when the final week of the summer window ended with no major attacking signing. Despite spending £100million, there was no significant investment up top.
The club, however, bolstered the midfield and the defence. And according to the expected goals against metric, Leeds are actually close to the best in the league. Daniel Farke’s side have only conceded 7.9 expected goals, which ranks them among the top 10 in the league. This means the club have been conceding low-quality shots, which is a good thing.
Though club chief Robbie Evans hinted at no business in January, Graeme Bailey’s latest update says the plan is different now. Speaking to TBRF, the transfer insider thinks Leeds will be active in January:
“They know they were a couple of players short in the summer window – that’s something they’ve accepted internally.
“They made a great start with their defensive and midfield signings, but they’re aware they still lack options in certain areas.
“Overall, they’re making a good fist of it and happy with how the quality has improved, especially with [Dominic] Calvert-Lewin and [Noah] Okafor.
“They might not be household names, but they’ve been a big upgrade on what Leeds had in the Championship.
“The plan is to be active in January – they’re looking to bring in another two, maybe three players.”
QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Leeds United goalkeepers?
Two players Leeds United could sign in January
The Whites could be limited to some options when the transfer window comes around. We look at two ideal candidates that could improve the team’s fortunes come the middle of the season.
Piotr Zielinski to Leeds United
Piotr Zielinski Credit: Imago
The Polish international has been heavily linked with a move to Elland Road. And he could be exactly what Leeds need in the middle of the park. The 2o22/23 Serie A season saw the midfielder rank top five in assists and key passes – exactly the magic the Whites could use this season.
Hakim Ziyech
Hakim Ziyech Credit: Imago
The former Chelsea man would bring some creativity from the flank. The 32-year-old right winger excels at dead balls and dribbling, which could be a big weapon for Daniel Farke’s side. Wages could be an issue, but getting this kind of quality for a few months couldn’t hurt. If fans have some doubts, Ziyech’s record of 192 goals and assists in Europe could convince some of them.
