Adam Pope delivers significant update on Leeds United possibly signing Cheikhou Kouyate

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Even with the transfer window shut, Leeds United could be making some movement to bolster their midfield as they look to delve into the free market.

Cheikhou Kouyate’s name has been doing the rounds at Leeds, with the experienced midfielder recently leaving Nottingham Forest after helping them survive in the Premier League last season.

The 34-year-old spent the majority of his career at West Ham United and Crystal Palace, but now he could be about to add a fourth English club to his CV.

Kouyate has never played in England’s second tier and has largely been used to playing in the elite league, as well as playing 12 matches in the UEFA Champions League.

But could he be about to add the might of Leeds United to his name because he has been at Thorp Arch for ‘several days’ now, according to Adam Pope.

Daniel Farke has injury issues in midfield, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that the powers that be are possibly looking at this move.

Ethan Ampadu has a knee injury, with the versatile player ruled out for several months and then Ilia Gruev is also sidelined for a long period of time.

Not only are these key players for Leeds’ promotion push, but they are also out for lengthy periods of time, so extra legs are needed.

BBC Sport journalist Pope added on Twitter that a deal to bring in Kouyate ‘remains in the balance’ as he continues to train at Thorp Arch.

Could Leeds United sign Cheikhou Kouyate?

‘Senegal midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate, 34, has been at Thorp Arch for several days,’ wrote Pope. ‘Available on a free. Deal to sign ex-West Ham Utd player remains in balance.’

Cheikhou Kouyate deal is a no-brainer for Leeds United

Farke needs to make a call somewhere and this is a pretty good door to knock on given the circumstances.

Leeds can’t wait until January, far too many important games await, including a home clash against rivals Sheffield United on Friday night.

READ MORE: ‘Unbelievable’ Leeds player is already unlikely to start against Sheffield United at Elland Road

Even if Kouyate signs, he won’t be ready for the Yorkshire derby, but a tricky test against Watford also awaits, as well as a home tie against struggling and recently relegated Luton Town in November.

Added to that, the Whites have already dropped valuable points and they seriously need to start motoring now because, even another play-off finish at the end of the season would be seen as a big problem, they have to get automatics.