Sean Longstaff arrived from Newcastle United with a wealth of Premier League experience. The exact type of player Leeds United needed coming back into the league.
The 2024-25 Championship winners were very active during the transfer window. Eight players went out on loan, while 17 exited the club. If that was not enough, 12 players also joined the club. Jaka Bijol got plaudits for Leeds’s last game, while Longstaff deserves it for the season so far.
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Longstaff was one of those incoming transfers. Having spent his entire at Newcastle albeit a couple loan spells, he had extensive knowledge of playing in the top flight. A reported fee of £12m plus potential add-ons sealed the deal between the two clubs.
Sean Longstaff is worth it for Leeds
Sean Longstaff has shone at Elland Road (Credits: Imago Images)
The midfielder is on course to be one of the best bits of business in the league. Providing defensive stability and attacking flair, he gives much needed balance to the side.
Despite his doggedness in the middle of the park, Longstaff stature is growing as a creative option for his club. This makes him an even valuable addition.
Longstaff’s creativity has resulted in assists in crucial victories over West Ham and Bournemouth. Add to it his work rate and tactical capabilities. It is a match made in heaven.
Longstaff lords over big names
In nine games for the Whites, the 27-year old has created five big chances. That is on par with some of the biggest names in the league. Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah from Liverpool and Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace all have similar numbers to their name.
Longstaff also features in the Top 5 of overall chances as well. An impressive 18 chances created at 2 per game – ranking only behind Bruno Fernandes (24), Jack Grealish (20), and Gakpo (19).
Switching from the Magpies seemed like a demotion to some, but the Englishman’s stature has only grown. Despite not being a recognised attacker, he has been a key component of Leed’s frontline.
Daniel Farke has also found a relieable set-piece taker in his ranks, with his inch perfect deliveries turning provider for Joe Rodon twice this season.
To sum things up, Longstaff will be a prime reason on why Leeds can expect to have a longer stay in the Premier League. He is the heart of the team and Leeds can only improve if they have a man upfront to capitalise on those chances.
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