Leeds United are being urged to strengthen their squad with an additional attacking midfielder in the January transfer window, though securing the ideal candidate could prove challenging. The team has showcased its promotion potential in the Championship, losing only two of its first 15 games and coming within two points of league leaders Sunderland as they head into the November international break.
While Daniel Farke’s side has had its highs and lows, recent form has been encouraging despite a midfield crisis. Long-term injuries to both Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev have created a reshuffling challenge, but Leeds’ concerns extend beyond the defensive midfield. There’s a clear need for a creative playmaker, which may require attention in January.
Missed opportunity to replace Georginio Rutter in the summer
Following their play-off defeat to Southampton in May, which ended their hopes of an immediate return to the Premier League and reduced their parachute payments, Leeds risked losing several key players. As anticipated, top talents like Glen Kamara, Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville, and Georginio Rutter moved on to Premier League clubs.
Replacing players of Rutter’s caliber was a tall order, and ultimately, Leeds struggled to fill the void after Brighton triggered his £40 million release clause, despite some last-minute attempts. According to CEO Angus Kinnear, the club’s bids for Fabio Carvalho, James McAtee, and former Norwich star Emiliano Buendia fell through, as did a proposal for Sheffield United’s Gus Hamer. In the meantime, Brenden Aaronson has stepped up, attempting to fill Rutter’s role with commendable effort.
Aaronson, however, brings a different style than Rutter, and Leeds is prioritizing a January signing with a more similar profile.
Call for Leeds to sign an attacking midfielder in January
Kris Smith, a Leeds fan pundit, expressed his views on the January window, set to open in less than two months. While he doesn’t fear any player departures, he does have concerns about whether Leeds will address their need for an attacking midfielder, especially if they don’t find an “ideal solution.”
“I’m not really concerned about Leeds losing players in January,” Kris shared with Football League World. “My worry is whether Leeds will actually bring in the players we need.”
According to Kris, a number 10 is essential for the club in the new year. “That’s the obvious solution for Leeds. We need someone not only skilled but fitting the right profile, which is challenging to find.”
While Aaronson has performed admirably as a number 10 in the promotion push, Kris feels he doesn’t bring the creative spark Leeds requires. He suggests that a Premier League loan might be a practical option, although he doubts many players will be available to meet the club’s needs.
Kris concluded, “We can’t afford to come out of this window without that signing. In previous years, we’ve had quiet Januarys—even in the Premier League—often being selective about who we bring in. My worry is that if the perfect solution isn’t there, Leeds might do nothing, leaving us just short yet again.”
