Leeds United have a growing issue with Ao Tanaka to address, and the only man who can make assurances to the midfielder is Daniel Farke.
It’s not a new problem by any means. But, Daniel Farke has found a knack of leaving some talented Leeds players feeling ostracised at the club.
You could argue that it comes as a by-product of missions accomplished. Last season, we gained promotion at the cost of wasting Largie Ramazani. This season, we could stay up and enjoy a cup run at the expense of Ao Tanaka wanting to leave.
Leeds United facing battle to convince Ao Tanaka to stay at Elland Road amid £10.4m speculation
Speculation this week revealed that Leeds midfielder Tanaka is considering leaving the club this summer amidst a lack of playing time.
The Japan midfielder scored the opener in the FA Cup quarter-final against West Ham. And, he proceeded to put his fingers in his ears, a celebration often seen by those subject to transfer discourse.
It’s claimed the midfielder is open to leaving to a Premier League rival this summer, while Leeds could expect a fee in the region of £10.4million.
Although, I don’t see how such a measly fee could be worked out. There’s seven league games left to decide our fate and selling power, and a World Cup looms for Tanaka with Japan.
Daniel Farke set to respond to Ao Tanaka speculation with telling Leeds United XI decision vs Man Utd
When you see transfer reports emerge like this, you have to ask what the motive behind this link emerging is.
Leeds are certainly not the reason this speculation has emerged. So, it must come from either the player’s camp or the buying clubs.
What is clear is that Tanaka is understandably not happy with his dearth of opportunities in the Premier League. His performance against West Ham was the latest reminder that he’s better than his 763 league minutes would suggest.
That being said, this news going public makes it abundantly clear that Tanaka will be looking to leave if his situation doesn’t change.
Away to Man United this Monday night, Farke has the chance to dispel any rumours. To do that, he has to show faith to Tanaka and hand him a start.
Returning him to the bench, when Anton Stach is carrying an injury, would show that nothing’s actually changed regarding Farke’s stance on the 27-year-old. In turn, it would prove Tanaka right and push him closer to the exit door.
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