Leeds United have had a busy summer so far as they gear up for a return to the Premier League.
Sebastiaan Bornauw, Lukas Nmecha, Jaka Bijol and Gabriel Gudmundsson are already through the door, but there’s still work to be done to ensure Daniel Farke ’s side are fully prepared to compete in the top flight next term. The transfer window remains open until 1 September, with Leeds’ first game of the season at home to Everton on August 18.
The challenge facing Leeds next season is a significant one, which is why the business done this summer will be crucial in giving them the best possible chance of retaining their Premier League status beyond the 2025/26 campaign.
Here, Leeds Live takes a look at the latest transfer news and rumours involving the Whites.
Leeds United given ‘free run’ at bargain transfer
One of the surprise names to be linked with a move to Elland Road this summer is former Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The 31-year-old spent six years at Anfield between 2017 and 2023 before joining Turkish giants Besiktas following the expiry of his contract.
According to journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, Besiktas have opted to terminate Oxlade-Chamberlain’s deal, a year before it was due to expire in 2026. If the reports are accurate, he would be available as a free agent this summer, representing a potential market opportunity for a club like Leeds.
Besiktas midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Besiktas midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Image: dia images via Getty Images)
Links to the player first surfaced last month, although several Championship sides were also credited with interest. Whether these latest developments prompt Leeds to make a move remains to be seen.
Leeds Live says: As a free agent, Oxlade-Chamberlain could be a valuable option for Leeds, although any deal would likely hinge on his wage demands. A Champions League and Premier League winner with Liverpool, his experience could be hugely beneficial as Leeds adjust to life back in the top flight. He’d also offer versatility, with the ability to operate in multiple positions.
Loan interest in Gyabi
Elsewhere, Leeds midfielder Darko Gyabi is attracting plenty of loan interest from clubs in the Championship and in France, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke this week. The 21-year-old joined the Whites from Manchester City’s youth ranks in 2022 and has since made five senior appearances for the club.
Since arriving at Elland Road, Gyabi has had two loan spells with Plymouth Argyle, where he made 58 appearances across all competitions. His current contract with Leeds runs until the summer of 2026.
Leeds Live says: The interest in Gyabi is encouraging, although it’s unclear whether Leeds would prefer to loan him out again or consider a permanent sale. With just 12 months remaining on his deal, a sale might make more sense, so it’s certainly a situation to keep an eye on.
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