Leeds United took a different approach to the transfer market this summer. Last year saw Ipswich Town and Southampton spend a chunk of their transfer budget on Premier League and Championship players.
The two teams were eventually relegated. Leeds on the other hand, have targeted high quality signings from top leagues across the continent. The club have spent way less than £100million, but have signed seven players of the highest quality. Leeds recruited the likes of Jaka Bijol, Lucas Perri and Anton Stach.
Most Read on The Leeds Press
Many would think these players will have a tough time adapting to English football, but the recruitment team prepared for that. Daniel Farke revealed that most of these players were bought because they checked the physical profile to play in England.
“You have to make sure that you are also good at defending crosses. Also more corner kicks, more wide-area free kicks against us. It’s important to be really, really good and strong.
“Also on the other end. Because I’m not sure if we can dominate all of the games in the manner we did on Championship level.”
QUIZ: Can you name the team Leeds United signed these players from?
West Ham choose to keep Leeds United target
Credit: Imago
Early on in the transfer window, there were reports that Leeds were looking at midfield targets specifically from the Premier League. Sean Longstaff and Tomas Soucek were the two main targets due to their unique blend of dynamism and goalscoring.
Leeds eventually signed Longstaff, but Soucek was rumoured to be leaving the London club. However, according to Claret & Hugh, West Ham have made the decision to keep the 30-year old. A source near the club says Soucek is ”99% certain” to stay with the Hammers this summer:
“Tomáš loves the club and the West Ham fans. He wants to stay. There have been no new contract talks,” the source confirmed.
Leeds chose the better option in Longstaff
The Whites took the right option when deciding to sign Sean Longstaff. He is much younger, and can contribute more to this current team under Daniel Farke. Leeds would have had an older player on higher wages for a long-term contract if Soucek came on board.
Longstaff is the perfect complement to the current midfield options at the club. He is a perfect number eight, he can cover ground and defend while chipping in with goal contributions. His Premier League experience will be key for Leeds United next season.
Related Topics