Deadline Day was a disaster for Leeds United. Even managing director Robbie Evans said it was a bad end to a good window, but the majority of Leeds fans will disagree with that.
Leeds huffed and puffed in their attempts to bring Harry Wilson to Elland Road. But Fulham pulled the plug on a move despite signing Kevin and Samuel Chukwueze, though Tyrique George’s move collapsed.
Wilson showed Leeds what they were missing for Wales earlier this week, during his nation’s 1-0 win over Kazakhstan. His free-kick was decisive for Wales’ goal, highlighting Leeds’ lack of a set-piece specialist.
But Wilson was not the only player Leeds were supposedly looking at. Leeds also considered a return to Elland Road for Manor Solomon, with reports emerging on deadline day regarding a Leeds move for him.
Manor Solomon in action for Leeds.
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Manor Solomon reminder for Daniel Farke in Israel’s 4-0 win
Leeds had missed out on Facundo Buonanotte just before deadline day and had considered trying to lure Solomon back to Elland Road. Solomon had just had a hand in 23 goals and assists for Leeds in 2024-25.
But Leeds decided against it. Leicester showed interest, Crystal Palace held talks and then right at the very last, Solomon joined Villarreal. It sees Solomon move to a side that is in this season’s Champions League.
Leeds had a chance. The emotion of a return to Leeds will have appealed for Solomon. But Leeds and Farke clearly chose not to make a move, and on Friday night, Solomon showed why that was a mistake.
A brilliant assist for Israel’s opener in a 4-0 World Cup qualifying win over Moldova, Solomon went one better with a gorgeous finish of his own. His work was done on 65 minutes, his first outing of the season.
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Manor Solomon vs Moldova:
– 65 minutes played
– 1 goal
– 1 assist
– 3 chances created
– 4 successful dribbles
– 5 duels won@VillarrealCF you chose wisely pic.twitter.com/fNYKuKg73j
— 𝕄𝕒𝕕𝕣𝕚𝕕𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕒 | 𝘚𝘭𝘪𝘮 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘺🇮🇱🎗️ (@RMA_Shady) September 6, 2025
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Given Solomon suffered an injury during Tottenham’s pre-season and this was his first competitive minutes of the season, the pocket-sized attacker starred. A brilliant assist and a superbly taken goal.
Israeli site Ynet described his display as “exceptional”, claiming Solomon continually “embarrassed” Moldovan defenders throughout. A reminder for boss Farke and Leeds, that Solomon is a top player.
Daniel Farke during Leeds' clash against Newcastle.
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images
The grass is not always greener. Solomon realised this when initially trying to earn a second chance for Tottenham by returning to Thomas Frank’s side at the start of the summer. But for Leeds, it is also true.
Leeds may feel they had outgrown Solomon after promotion. But actually, the two were perfect for each other in the Championship and Solomon would have had an impact for Leeds in the Premier League, too.