Leeds United News have the latest information on the Whites’ pursuit of other players ahead of the transfer deadline.
Speaking during his press conference today, Daniel Farke did not rule out further additions for Leeds United ahead of the deadline in just over two weeks following the arrival of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and the imminent arrival of James Justin.
Farke said: “I’ve praised our key people so far, mentioned several times we’re on a good path. [We’ve] done lots in defence, midfield, and goalkeeper positions, and also full-back.
“I’ve also been clear we need to strengthen our squad, perhaps one more full-back; but especially in offence. With Dominic it’s the first step, an important step, but there is still business to be done.”
He added: “There is no doubt we need reinforcements, especially in the offence. Dominic can’t be the only step. We are on a good path, prepared for the first games.
“And, I hope when the transfer window is over, we have a squad who is capable of fighting for being the first team who breaks this curse because we have one clear target to stay in this league.”
Daniel Farke’s view of the summer transfer window and what Leeds still need
Farke added: “I’m not a big fan of having a group that is too big. Six or seven strikers would be difficult in terms of spirit. I’m a big believer in working with a group where every player has a chance to play.
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“This is why we had some honest talks at the beginning of pre-season. Competition is important, of course. We have three proper striker options but I wouldn’t rule out another striker signing because you always have to be awake until the last second if there is an opportunity.
“I wouldn’t rule it out but the focus is also on other positions. In general, we need more quality and options up front. We have lost a standout offensive player in Manor Solomon. In this position we have to stay awake.”
Since those comments, we spoke exclusively to Leeds United News’ transfer correspondent Graeme Bailey, who confirmed what Leeds are still in the market for after Justin and Calvert-Lewin.
He said: “I’d still be surprised if Leeds didn’t do another forward. I honestly think Leeds could do another three forwards.
“You could do another versatile striker, a winger, and someone that can play in a few of the attacking positions. [Noah] Okafor, Solomon, and a no.10? Yeah, I could really see that.”
Someone like Okafor who can be utilised as a striker or winger is seen as the sort of flexible and versatile option to cover the injury issues of Lukas Nmecha and Calvert-Lewin in years gone by.
He operates more as a wide forward but could be an alternative in an emergency to Joel Piroe. The latter is likely to operate in a deeper role in games this season.
Should Leeds sign Justin and a further three players, that would mean a total of 12 new faces arriving at the club this summer.
Photo by George Wood/Getty ImagesLeeds attacking depth detailed amid Manor Solomon talk
Leeds have a stacked forward line right now in terms of bodies, with some departures needed if they are to secure another three attacking players yet, including the persistently linked Solomon with Okafor.
However, Farke’s comments do intimate that more players will arrive in those areas. He added: “I’m always optimistic and confident but in this business, it’s done when it’s done and everyone has signed everything.
“We’ve had one or two occasions when we’ve got pretty close to bringing a new winger in and in the end it wasn’t to be. I’m optimistic and confident but we have to be a bit more patient.”
- Dominic Calvert-Lewin: CF
- Lukas Nmecha: CF, LW, RW
- Joel Piroe: CF, AM
- Patrick Bamford: CF
- Sam Greenwood: AM, CF, CM, LW
- Brenden Aaronson: AM, CM, LW, RW
- Dan James: RW, LW
- Willy Gnonto: LW, RW. AM, CF
- Largie Ramazani: LW, RW
- Jack Harrison: LW, RW
- Sam Chambers: AM, RW
Solomon, Okafor, and a no.10 would be adding to the above; Leeds clearly need sales.