Daniel Farke has already said he would like to bring in a new full-back before the deadline slams shut and it is easy to see why, with only three full-backs to choose from in two positions.
Jayden Bogle’s arrival sees him rival Sam Byram on the right, with Junior Firpo the only left-footed senior option at left-back. A new left-back is key and here are three free agents that Leeds have to consider:
Brandon Williams
Leeds United actually wanted to sign Williams last summer, but the 23-year-old joined Ipswich on loan instead. He struggled for game time at Portman Road, largely due to the imperious form of Leif Davis.
Now a free agent after being released by Manchester United, Williams is looking for a new club and he would surely entertain a reunion with boss Farke. The duo worked together during a loan at Norwich.
Farke even described him as “top level” during the loan. If Leeds want a young English player with know how in the second tier, and a player that knows Farke, then Williams has got to be an option on a free.
Yuta Nakayama
The 22-time Japan star is available for nothing after leaving Yorkshire rivals Huddersfield after a two-year spell with the Terriers. The 27-year-old exits after Huddersfield were relegated to the third tier of England.
But he will want a move soon given his international involvement with Japan, and that he is approaching the peak of his career. Nakayama knows the Championship well and has impressed in what is a poor side.
Whether the Japan star would be a consideration for Leeds remains to be seen, but on a free he would certainly solve a lack of cover for Firpo. While Williams rivals Firpo, Nakayama would be a back-up option.
Christopher Lenz
Lenz, 29, made the surprise switch to Leipzig in the summer of 2023 but only managed eight appearances last season. He picked up a calf issue towards the end of 2023-24 and is now available on a free transfer.
His fitness would be crucial, but Lenz’s experience – which includes 98 Bundesliga appearances across a number of different clubs – would be important if Leeds did try to lure the Germany U19 star to Yorkshire.
Certainly, having a German manager might prove tempting. At his best, he can rival Firpo for the left-back slot but a lot of it would be down to fitness and whether Farke can return him to his Frankfurt days.
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