Leeds United’s transfer window has begun to heat up recently.
United have been dealt two major blows so far this summer, with both Pascal Struijk and Karl Darlow leaving.
However, the arrival of Harry Wilson has certainly cushioned this blow.
And now, Graham Smyth has provided the latest update on another attacker we have found ourselves linked to.
Graham Smyth provides the latest on potential Julian Brandt deal
Julian Brandt, 30, has found himself linked with a move to Leeds, after his contract with Borussia Dortmund expired at the end of June.
The playmaker, who is capable of playing as a number ten or out wide, has a wealth of international, Bundesliga and Champions League experience under his belt.
Naturally, there are plenty of other clubs interested in securing his services. Recently, Brandt’s father was spotted at Real Betis discussing a potential deal. But this does not look like it will materialise.
In many ways, it feels similar to the Dominic Calvert-Lewin deal last summer. Leeds holding an interest in a free agent who, on paper, they are certainly not favoured to sign.
Speaking on the most recent episode of the Inside Elland Road podcast, Smyth provided the latest update on the potential deal between Leeds and the player Smyth described as “unbelievably talented”.
“It’s as you were (with Brandt)”, Smyth said.
“I feel like this is one that will rumble a bit longer before either party makes a decision.”
Julian Brandt deal ‘less urgent’ for Leeds right now per Graham Smyth
Smyth also argued that Leeds have multiple “priority” positions that need to be sorted before turning their full attention towards signing Brandt.
A new goalkeeper, centre back, midfielder, backup striker and cover at left-back were all positions Smyth mentioned.
Smyth also claimed that with Wilson signing, the Brandt deal may not be as much of a priority for United this summer.
“Now that Wilson’s in the building, he ticks that right wing/number ten blend. It probably makes the Brandt thing less of an urgent matter.
“Also, if he’s being shopped around and we know that’s the case because of his dad being spotted at Real Betis, then I think maybe he needs to come to a position where he thinks Leeds is my best option.
“Leeds is the best offer on the table, let’s try and make that happen.”
Smyth finished by saying he hasn’t heard anything that would suggest a deal for Brandt is imminent.
Julian Brandt signing should be treated as a bonus
Whilst Brandt would be an incredible signing, it is clear that signing him is far from a guarantee.
United are seemingly in competition with multiple other clubs for the German. So, the 49ers must have a list of other attackers they can turn their attention to if Brandt moves elsewhere.
For my money, I still believe we could do with signing another winger.
I’d even be willing to sell Dan James, too, in order to help fund this, even though I do think this is extremely unlikely.
That’s why a deal for Brandt would be so exceptional. To sign a player of his quality, you’d need at least £30-40million.
So the 49ers must remain on high alert when it comes to signing Brandt. If there comes an opportunity where they can force a deal over the line for him, they should not hesitate to do so.
I agree with Smyth that we should prioritise other positions first. Mainly goalkeeper and centre back.
But without a doubt, Brandt would be the player to elevate Daniel Farke’s squad the most, so it is important that the 49ers address these other positions quickly so they can turn their full attention to trying to sign Brandt.
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