Daniel Farke, Sean Longstaff
(Credit: Imago and Hasan Karim)
Niall Togher
Tue 8 July 2025 10:30, UK
Leeds United are addressing their weaknesses quickly in the transfer window ahead of their return to the Premier League.
Gabriel Gudmundsson is set to pass his medical ahead of the left-back’s arrival in West Yorkshire to replace the departed Junior Firpo.
A goalkeeper and a striker would now be at the top of most supporters’ shopping lists ahead of the new season, with Callum Wilson being linked with a move to the Whites.
Despite this, it is midfield where Leeds look most likely to strengthen next, with Sean Longstaff closing in on a move from Newcastle United.
Gudmundsson Leeds
Gudmundsson is expected to be United’s starting left-back next season (Credit: Imago)
Longstaff close to joining Leeds
Longstaff has been rumoured to be switching St James’ Park for Elland Road as Leeds look to add vital Premier League experience to their squad.
MORE LEEDS STORIES
Daniel Farke will be aware that for as positively as signings such as Jaka Bijol have been received, none of the German manager’s current additions have extensive experience of playing in the Premier League.
Longstaff adds this to Farke’s squad, and according to Sky Sports and Keith Downie on X (8 July), Leeds are closing in on a deal for the 27-year-old midfielder.
Sean Longstaff Stats (Premier League 2024/25 season)
Appearences 25
Starts 8
Total minutes 837
Longstaff struggled for gametime at Newcastle last season.
With the Englishman having just one year left on his deal at Newcastle, Leeds would be able to secure the player on the cheap.
The Whites have made a bid of £10million with an additional £2m in add-ons, which is expected to be accepted after extended talks.
Midfield options needed for Farke
Whilst most Leeds supporters would feel like a midfield pairing of Ao Tanaka and Ethan Ampadu would not be the priority for the 49ers to improve upon in the summer, depth will be necessary.
Whether Longstaff would be able to dislodge either man from the starting XI remains to be seen, with a more defensive three also possible.
Longstaff would provide a sizeable upgrade on Ilia Gruev in terms of Premier League experience, with the Bulgarian likely now a depth option.
Whilst signing a goalkeeper like Lucas Perri is more of a pressing issue, Leeds must ensure they have adequate squad depth to help in their bid to avoid relegation.
Sign up for the MOT Leeds News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Leeds United news sent straight to your phone.
Related Posts