Leeds United have just been dealt another setback in the summer transfer window. But that’s going to happen when the club has so many transfer targets.
It’s clear that Leeds United are really hopeful of stocking up on quality this summer, and a degree of quantity too with the Premier League season bound to be a testing one for Daniel Farke’s side.
There is an extremely long list of players linked with Leeds United this summer. So far though, only two have made the move to Elland Road.
Recently, Leeds United announced the signing of Jaka Bijol from Udinese, having previously signed striker Lukas Nmecha on a free transfer after his Wolfsburg release.
Who signs next is a bit of a mystery. Farke seems to have several irons in the fire with numerous reports of bids on the table and of talks being held, as well as ongoing rumours of players potentially leaving.
Another new centre-back could be a priority for Farke before the summer’s over. But one transfer target who won’t be joining is Dara O’Shea.
Ipswich Town defender Dara O'Shea whilst on international duty with Republic of Ireland against Luxembourg.
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Dara O’Shea makes key Ipswich Town decision amid Leeds United interest
Recent reports revealed how Leeds United have taken an interest in O’Shea at Ipswich Town. The Republic of Ireland international was a key performer for the Tractor Boys despite their relegation from the Premier League, having joined the club in a £12million deal in the summer of 2024.
And O’Shea angered Ipswich Town fans after speaking out on his future, saying that he was fully committed to the club ‘at the moment’, prompting debate that he was weighing up his options.
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But speculation of O’Shea leaving Portman Road has now been quashed after the 26-year-old centre-back put pen-to-paper on a new contract with Ipswich Town, committing his future until 2030.
Speaking to the club, O’Shea said: “We learned a lot last season and that will be really important for us going forward. I’m glad to have signed this new contract and I am ready to get to work again in pre-season.
“There are good characters and good human beings at this club and I want to help deliver success again and help the club get back into the Premier League. This is a massive club but it can continue to grow and I’m excited.”
Jaka Bijol pumps his arm in celebration during Udinese vs Monza.
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Daniel Farke looks set to hit the pause button at Leeds United
After signing Bijol, adding another new centre-back looks like it’ll drop right down the priority list for Leeds United and Farke in this summer’s transfer window.
There’s simply other positions in such greater need of new bodies: in goal and at left-back, and then perhaps in central midfield. The list can go on.
But there are other centre-backs linked with a move to Elland Road and it would be foolish to assume that Leeds won’t be working on signing multiple players at one time.
Recent reports have revealed that Joe Gomez is a target for Leeds United, with the England man looking set to leave Anfield. Elsewhere, Bologna’s Jhon Lucumi looks set to be on the move this summer, with Leeds United and Roma among the teams linked with the Colombian international.
Leeds United currently kick off their pre-season with a friendly game against Man United on July 19th.