Daniel Farke hinted that Leeds United can do business in January in Friday’s press conference, and it comes after Leeds had been linked with Man United’s Kobbie Mainoo.
After the summer’s deadline, Robbie Evans said Leeds had maxed out PSR. Any new signings that would cost a fee would see Leeds go over the line and be in danger of a points deduction in the 26-27 season.
But Leeds had tried to sign Harry Wilson on the final day of the window. Clear proof that the club are still willing to spend, even if it does take them over the line. Evans says Leeds will try to avoid January deals.
However, when asked about January, Farke said he hadn’t given it thought but would do when time was right. It suggests that Leeds can do business and one player being linked with Leeds is Kobbie Mainoo.
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Teddy Sheringham urged Leeds to sign Kobbie Mainoo this year
Mainoo has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford and is only being afforded minutes off the bench by Ruben Amorim. In a World Cup year, Mainoo needs game time to catch Thomas Tuchel’s eye.
Reports say that Leeds are one of 10 clubs interested in signing Mainoo in January. Realistically, it would not be a permanent deal, especially given Leeds face competition from Real Madrid, Barcelona and more.
But a loan may suit all parties and in September, Teddy Sheringham told the Yorkshire Post that Mainoo would be a good signing for Leeds. He feels that Farke could get the best out of the versatile midfielder.
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“If Leeds could get someone like that on loan, definitely a plus point. He needs someone who loves how he plays. Just because Amorim doesn’t fancy him, it doesn’t mean Farke won’t get the best out of him.
“Put an arm around him and tell him how good he is, team him up with someone in midfield who accommodates him and all of a sudden, you’ve got a player back on your hands,” Sheringham added.
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Do Leeds really need to sign Kobbie Mainoo in January?
Of all the positions in the Leeds side, central midfield is well stocked. Ethan Ampadu might have had his first bad game on Saturday, but the Wales star remains the side’s most important player, even now.
Sean Longstaff has been excellent since joining Leeds and Anton Stach is the club’s most expensive outlay since promotion. Ao Tanaka is loved, even if there are concerns over the Japan star’s physicality.
Ilia Gruev is solid back-up for Ampadu. So where does Mainoo fit in? Farke might feel he needs a bit more technical ability in midfield and Mainoo would certainly add that. But if cash is tight, is he a priority?
Probably not. Leeds are likely to target an attacking midfielder like Harry Wilson in January and if they manage to get one in, do Leeds dip back in? Mainoo is a top player, but perhaps not what Leeds need.