Leeds United currently sit right in the mix for a place in the Championship’s top two but with the January transfer window just over a month away, a vital part of the season is approaching.
January hands sides the opportunity to provide their respective squads with some fresh impetus and as shown by Ipswich Town last season, it can make a huge difference.
The Tractor Boys brought in the likes of Kieffer Moore and Jeremy Sarmiento amongst others, all of whom played a key role in helping them pip Leeds to second spot.
Leeds are in a stronger position now than this time last season with just two points separating them from both Sunderland and Sheffield United in first and second.
But a repeat of such a quiet winter window could once again be the catalyst for Leeds’ downfall if those around them decide to strengthen.
How December could change Leeds’ January strategy
Between now and the turn of the New Year, Leeds have arguably the kindest set of fixtures of the Championship‘s top four.
Middlesbrough are the only side in the top eight Leeds have to face in that period, while Sheffield United and Sunderland will come up against each other twice, with the former also due to host Burnley.
As such, it is clearly a time in the season Leeds need to take advantage of. However, failure to do so may change their approach to the January window, according to transfer expert Graeme Bailey.
Speaking exclusively to LeedsUnited.News, Bailey says Leeds are currently happy with their squad, but a poor run of results may see them sign as many as three players when the window opens.
He said: “It’s going to depend on where they are. The pressure is firmly on Farke at the minute. They’re going to back him. They are going to invest to a certain degree. They’re pretty happy and they’re in the mix. They won’t want to lose anyone.
“Leeds think they’ve got the best squad in the division, which they probably have. So if they’re fully fit, they’re fairly confident. Making sure they’re not going to be left short. Ideally, they’d like a few more goals up front is the feeling, so let’s see what pops up for them.
“I don’t think there’s a dire need for the team at the minute. Leeds aren’t desperate. I think the prime thing for them is that they think they’re good enough to go up and they are. As for the pressure on Farke, they think they’ve assembled a squad that’s good enough to be top two and they believe that.
“Maybe another striker if the right striker comes along, they might look. They’re hoping that if the right deal’s there, they might do it. Financially there are options there for them to do something. They’ll be no panic buying because there’s no need.
“They’re right in the mix and they’re happy with where they are to a certain extent. Everyone thinks Sunderland will drop off and if they do, Leeds look in fine fettle. I think primarily they are pretty happy with where they are. They’re not overly concerned, but they can’t be dropping any more silly points.
“December’s obviously a massive month for the Championship. If they have a bad December, we may be talking two or three names coming in, if they have a good one, one at the moment.”
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Leeds should look to strengthen two positions in January
Leeds are currently right among the very best in the division at both ends of the table. No club has conceded a fewer expected goals against (xGA) than the Whites, while only Middlesbrough have created more xG at the other end.
However, Daniel Farke has often criticised Leeds’ efficiency in the final third this season and so when the window opens, that should be where they look to strengthen.
Either a new right-footed left-winger or number 10 should come into provide competition for Brenden Aaronson, who is currently starting every match without fail.
A prolific striker would also not go amiss, though that is likely to depend on the future of Patrick Bamford.
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