Good Morning. It's Thursday 7th August and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Mateo Joseph Close to Mallorca Loan
Mateo Joseph looks set to leave Elland Road temporarily, with a loan deal to La Liga side RCD Mallorca nearing completion. Frustrated by limited minutes under Farke last season, the 20-year-old forward reportedly declined to join the club’s pre-season tour in Germany, further fuelling speculation about his future. Leeds have rejected several offers but now appear open to a loan without an obligation to buy, suggesting they still see long-term value in the striker.
For Joseph, a season in Spain’s top division could be invaluable for his development. But from a Leeds perspective, questions remain about squad depth, especially if a new striker isn’t secured in time. With a Premier League campaign ahead and the fixture list unforgiving, loaning out a young, energetic forward might look shortsighted if injuries or form issues strike.
Is loaning Joseph to Mallorca a smart development move, or are Leeds leaving themselves short up front with Bamford out of Daniel Farke’s plans?
Bilal El Khannouss Open to Leeds Move
Leeds United are reportedly still pushing hard to sign Moroccan international midfielder Bilal El Khannouss. Currently at Leicester City, the 21-year-old has attracted interest from top clubs across Europe, including Arsenal and Tottenham, but is said to be “very interested” in Leeds’ project. Reports suggest the club is exploring ways to trigger his release clause and may have already held preliminary talks with his representatives.
El Khannouss would instantly upgrade Leeds midfield creatively, adding composure, and international pedigree. His arrival would also signal that Leeds can attract elite-level talent even outside the traditional “Big Six.” The big question, however, is whether the club can realistically compete financially for his signature and whether this kind of move should be prioritised over strengthening other areas.
With all the midfield signings already this summer, should El Khannouss be a focus for Leeds United or should they be concentrating on more productive forward and wing options?
Leeds Monitoring Aleksandar Mitrović Situation
According to The Chronicle, Leeds United are keeping a close eye on Aleksandar Mitrović’s future, with whispers emerging that the Serbian forward may seek a return to English football. Currently playing in Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal, Mitrović is understood to be unsettled and open to the idea of joining a Premier League club if the right opportunity arises. Leeds are said to be one of several clubs monitoring the situation, as Daniel Farke looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new campaign.
The 29-year-old would bring proven Premier League and Championship pedigree, having scored 43 goals in his last 70 appearances in English football. However, his wage demands and the likely competition from more established top-flight clubs could make this a challenging deal to pull off. Still, if Leeds can land Mitrović, it would send a statement of intent that the club is not returning to the Premier League just to survive but to compete.
Is Mitrović a player Leeds should be looking at? Is he good enough and would his arrival upset the balance of Farke’s squad?