One of Leeds United’s priorities in the transfer window this summer will be to sign a better version of Brenden Aaronson, with the playmaker’s form somewhat up and down during 2024-25.
Aaronson started 44 of Leeds’ 46 Championship games and came on as a sub in the other two, with the American’s energy and stamina crucial in Daniel Farke’s eyes. It allowed him to almost play two positions.
Larry Nance Jr thinks Leeds are a better side when Aaronson starts. But in the role he played, and given the amount of minutes he was afforded, Aaronson only managed 11 goals and assists during 2024-25.
That was in the Championship and now, the Premier League. During his only season in the top flight, the American produced just one goal and three assists in 30 appearances and Leeds need better than that.
James McAtee closer to exit after Pep Guardiola decision
Crystal Palace proved their status as Man City’s bogey team once again on Saturday as they upset the odds to beat Pep Guardiola’s side 1-0 at Wembley. A stunning result, Eberechi Eze scoring the only goal.
Palace were excellent but they did have goalkeeper Dean Henderson to thank, who saved Palace on a number of occasions – not least saving a penalty from Omar Marmoush as City’s struggles continued.
A poor season for Pep Guardiola, who made a few strange choices when picking his side. No other player has scored more for City in The FA Cup than James McAtee, but Guardiola axed him from the squad.
City are now said to be ‘open to offers’ for McAtee. Angus Kinnear said Leeds wanted £35m-rated McAtee only to be rejected in their approach to land the England U21 star because Guardiola wanted to keep him.
Leeds a step closer to James McAtee move after Saturday
Guardiola has not given an explanation for his decision to drop McAtee, who did start in City’s recent 0-0 draw with Southampton. Any hope of him being the next Phil Foden or Cole Palmer is quickly fading.
Leeds are interested in McAtee again as they look to find a replacement, or a better-quality version of Aaronson. Having been dropped entirely from the squad on Saturday, surely McAtee will also want out.
It sees Leeds take a step closer to signing McAtee from his boyhood club, as the youngster starts to find that he is never going to be first choice for a team that can go out and splash £50m on someone better.
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