Leeds United are expected to be busy in the January transfer window, with Daniel Farke’s switch to a 3-5-2 formation highlighting a lack of depth in a couple of positions.
Leeds are currently six points above the bottom three and with a game in hand over 18th-placed West Ham, who could only draw with Brighton at the London Stadium on Tuesday. But more is required.
Leeds go to Liverpool on New Year’s Day in what is expected to be an incredibly tricky game. Especially, with Liverpool winning four games in a row and Leeds now without one of their key players, Joe Rodon.
After the summer window, Robbie Evans made it clear that any more signings would have seen Leeds cross the PSR line. That is despite the Whites trying to raid Fulham to lure Harry Wilson to Elland Road.
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“This summer, we spent everything we could. Unequivocally, we are maxing PSR out this season. If we had gone on to other targets [on deadline day], the consequences would have been seen in the current roster. More key players from last season would have had to go.”
Robbie Evans on Leeds United’s PSR position
How much Leeds can spend before crossing PSR border
LeedsUnited.News understands that there is money to spend at Leeds and the 49ers are willing to splash the cash. With Rodon missing and three centre-backs starting, another central defender is likely.
As is a striker, with Joel Piroe targeted by both Ipswich and Leicester, and both Lukas Nmecha and Dom Calvert-Lewin both injury-prone. The Mail further claims that Leeds have money to spend come January.
Indeed, the Mail say Leeds can still spend between £20m and £25m without going into the red. There is space for Leeds to spend without selling a player like Pascal Struijk, Willy Gnonto, or Harry Gray for profit.
The issues Daniel Farke and Leeds face in January window
Farke has often made the point that January is a difficult window to get right. Finding players that fit the criteria is often like looking for a needle in a haystack and then overpaying for it in the winter window.
Leeds need players who can come in and hit the ground running. Players with Premier League know how, and that means it will cost a lot. Farke makes the point that available players are available for a reason.
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Then, there is signing a player who realistically won’t play. If Leeds do sign a centre-back, Rodon will be back in a few games, and then he’ll be consigned to the bench. The same with any strikers eyed by Leeds.
The chances of Leeds making any major movements in January are unlikely. But perhaps, a temporary loan deal for players in need of game time ahead of the World Cup might be what the doctor ordered.
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