Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has been vocal about using a small squad since he arrived at Elland Road. The German sometimes sticks to his principles even when they may go sideways.
Having a small squad was a huge reason why the Whites had a slump in the middle of last season. Injuries to midfield duo Ethan Ampadu and Illia Gruev forced Farke into relying on other players in the middle of the park. On the positive side for Leeds fans, it gave Ao Tanaka the opportunity to shine in the team.
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Joe Rothwell also stepped up when called upon within that period, having some decent games to help the team. The former Bournemouth man has now joined Rangers this summer. He was on loan at Elland Road, but his role last season might push Leeds to add another midfielder this summer.
QUIZ: Can you name the team Leeds United sold these players to?
Sporting director drops huge hint on Leeds United target
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Midfielders have been high on Leeds United’s shortlist this summer. After adding a striker and two defenders, the midfield was a key area that the club wanted to address. Leeds pushed to sign Strasbourg midfielder Habib Diarra, and even submitted a bid. But eventually, Sunderland swooped in to sign the Senegalese international. The Black Cats also picked up Noah Sadiki, another Leeds target.
This meant the Whites had to shift focus to another target. Reports claimed that Leeds had a deal in place for Hoffenheim midfielder Anton Stach. Talks are ongoing, but nothing has been confirmed.
This week, Hoffenheim Sporting Director Andreas Schicker revealed that he plans to restructure the team. The main aim is to make the Bundesliga side younger, which could mean the departure of some players.
Hoffenheim plan could involve selling Leeds target
Schicker told Kicker that the plan for the future was to add more top talent to the team:
“One third faces of TSG, one third academy, one third top talents,”
It is believed that the Bundesliga side will be unwilling to sell Anton Stach, but a ”double-digit million sum” could convince them. Leeds could have an advantage as Hoffenheim had a ”very negative transfer balance” in 2024/25. So they could do with more funds in this summer transfer window.
The report also indicates that there is interest from clubs outside Leeds United.
Anton Stach is a midfield engine
Stach could bring a real different dimension to this Leeds United midfield. The current crop of midfielders include players very good on the ball. Ethan Ampadu, Illia Gruev and Ao Tanaka are excellent in possession.
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Where the Hoffenheim man thrives is off the ball; he is one of the best ball winners in the Bundesliga, and Europe. Leeds could really do with that in the Premier League next season.
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