Daniel Farke has been clear about his transfer priorities at Leeds United, identifying key positions that need reinforcement as the summer window draws to a close.
The German manager has expressed a desire to strengthen the squad at full-back and central midfield for weeks, with a new winger now on the wishlist following Crysencio Summerville’s departure. However, despite these clear needs, progress has been slow. It has been 25 days since Leeds last made a signing, with Jayden Bogle from Sheffield United being their most recent addition.
Despite the lack of activity, Farke has remained calm and composed, assuring fans that there is no need to panic. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, he reaffirmed his confidence that Leeds will secure the right players before the window shuts. However, with just two weeks left until the transfer deadline, the clock is ticking, and the pressure is mounting.
Leeds are also facing the possibility of further departures, which could complicate their transfer plans. The club has already seen significant player sales this summer, with Archie Gray and Crysencio Summerville leaving for substantial fees. With Luis Sinisterra’s move to Bournemouth also included, Leeds have raised more in player sales than any other club across Europe this summer, except Aston Villa.
However, these sales do not guarantee that Leeds’ squad is settled. There are still questions about whether more players could leave before the August 30 deadline. According to reports from BBC Sport, Leeds are preparing contingency plans in case they lose a central defender during this period. One potential target is Chelsea’s Bashir Humphreys, a promising young defender who could become available if the right conditions are met.
Chelsea are reportedly open to letting Humphreys leave permanently, as it is clear he does not fit into Enzo Maresca’s plans at Stamford Bridge. The Blues would prefer to sell the defender rather than loan him out for a third time, which could align with Farke’s preference for permanent transfers over temporary deals. However, the feasibility of this move will depend on Chelsea’s asking price and the budget Leeds have available to spend.
The potential acquisition of Humphreys would be a significant addition to Leeds’ defensive options, particularly if Max Wober were to depart. Wober, who has been linked with a return to Borussia Monchengladbach, spent last season on loan at the German club and could be tempted by a move back to the Bundesliga. Although Farke has publicly stated that Wober wants to remain at Leeds for the upcoming season, the situation remains uncertain.
Wober faces stiff competition from Pascal Struijk and Joe Rodon, who appear to be Farke’s preferred choices in central defense. If Wober were to leave, Leeds would need to act quickly to secure a replacement, making Humphreys an ideal candidate. Borussia Monchengladbach director Roland Virkus has already hinted that the German club could make another move for Wober before the deadline, further fueling speculation about the defender’s future.
Leeds’ transfer activity, or lack thereof, has left fans on edge as the window edges closer to closing. The club’s ability to secure key reinforcements will be crucial in determining their success this season. The potential addition of Humphreys, along with reinforcements in midfield and at full-back, could provide the squad with the depth and quality needed to compete at a high level. However, the slow pace of negotiations and the looming threat of further departures have created an air of uncertainty around Elland Road.
Farke’s calm demeanor has been reassuring to some extent, but actions speak louder than words. The next two weeks will be pivotal for Leeds United as they navigate the final days of the transfer window. Securing the right signings will be a balancing act, requiring careful consideration of both incoming and outgoing players.
As the clock ticks down, Leeds must act decisively to strengthen their squad and address the areas of concern identified by Farke. The potential acquisition of Bashir Humphreys, coupled with the arrival of a new full-back, central midfielder, and winger, could provide the boost Leeds need to achieve their ambitions this season. However, the outcome of this transfer window remains uncertain, and only time will tell if Leeds can secure the players they need to succeed.
