Leeds United Ilia Gruev
(Credit: Imago)
Pranav Shahaney
Sat 21 June 2025 7:10, UK
Leeds United are keen on adding to their midfield in the summer transfer window as they want to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
Last season, Ilia Gruev, Ao Tanaka and Ethan Ampadu were the mainstays for the Whites in midfield.
Daniel Farke is aware that the Leeds side needs reinforcements if they are to compete against top-flight teams.
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke
Farke must now integrate all the new signings at Leeds. (Credit: Imago)
Valentin Atangana wanted by Farke at Elland Road
The 49ers decided to stick with Farke after the 100-point season, so they now will have to back him in the transfer window.
He has shown promise during his stint at Elland Road, especially after he guided the Whites to promotion after losing multiple key players.
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According to Give Me Sport (20 June), Reims midfielder Valentin Atangana has emerged on Farke’s radar this summer.
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Yellow Cards Red Cards Minutes Played
Ligue 1 34 1 – 7 – 2,867′
Coupe de France 5 – – – – 412′
Ligue 1/Ligue 2 Playoffs 2 – – 1 – 100′
Total 24/25 41 1 – 8 – 3,379′
Atangana’s stats in the 2024/25 season.
He has been likened to N’Golo Kante and the Leeds United chiefs are considering entering negotiations to sign him.
The Whites have been made aware of the 19-year-old’s availability and he could be signed for a £9million fee.
Elland Road
Elland Road will be hosting Premier League football next season. (Credit: Imago)
Gruev could be benched by Atangana at Leeds United
Atgana is an athletic, ball-winning midfielder who could challenge Gruev for a starting spot at Leeds United due to his dynamic skill set and potential.
Following Reims’ relegation, his availability for £9million has sparked interest from the Whites, who see him as a long-term investment with a higher ceiling than the 24-year-old Gruev, whose passing lacks progression.
Atangana’s regular starts in Ligue 1, despite Reims’ struggles, showcase his readiness for the Premier League.
The Elland Road outfit must consider signing him to bolster midfield depth, especially with Gruev’s injury history and inconsistent attacking output, ensuring a robust, versatile engine room for their survival push.
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