Leeds United’s deadline day has not been quite as hectic as many predicted it would be.
Just over a week ago, it was panic stations at Elland Road after a winless opening three matches across all competitions, and a month long drought for a new signing.
However, Leeds have worked relatively quickly in the last eight days to get almost everything Daniel Farke was wanting in the transfer market.
Two new attacking players have joined in Largie Ramazani and Manor Solomon, while the central midfield vacancy has also been filled by Ao Tanaka.
Full-back Isaac Schmidt looks set to be Leeds’ eighth and final signing of the window with the expectation there won’t be a surprise in store.
Mitoma and Reo Hatate react to Ao Tanaka transfer
If Leeds do not land that final attacker, a lot of supporters will end this window with a sense of underwhelm considering the players who have departed.
At the same time, however, Leeds have conducted some really smart business and signing Tanaka at just £3.4 million certainly looks like it could fall under that category.
Leeds have been crying out for a number eight who can score goals pretty much ever since Mateusz Klich left, and Tanaka could well be the man who provides that.
He scored seven times for Fortuna Dusseldorf last season and also has an impressive eight goals in 27 senior appearances for Japan.
Based on their last two World Cup performances, Japan are actually one of the most highly promising international sides at the moment and so dipping into that market could pay dividends.
Following confirmation of his move to Elland Road, Tanaka posted on his official Instagram account earlier today, with a number of his Japan teammates responding, including Kaoru Mitoma, and Celtic star Reo Hatete.
Tanaka wrote: “I joined Leeds United. See you soon.”
What Tanaka has said in his first interview at Leeds
As is often par for the course when new players join Leeds, Tanaka spoke of the supporters being a big reason for his decision to move to Elland Road.
He also sees this as his opportunity to join Mitoma in fulfilling his dream of playing in the Premier League, stating that promotion is his aim.
He said: “Everyone says Leeds fans are amazing and the stadium atmosphere is amazing, so I can’t wait to play in front of the amazing supporters. I want to win in the stadium with so many supporters.
“I can control the game and make the assists and goals. I want to help the team. Of course, we want to go to the Premier League which is why I came here so I want to make a contribution for the team.”
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