Leeds United could see movement both in and out at Elland Road over the next week or two.
Though the transfer window does not open for another two-and-a-half-months, Leeds seem open to the possibility of bringing someone in, and letting go of one of their young talents on loan.
Leeds have been looking at the free agent market in the last couple of weeks and have had former Nottingham Forest midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate at Thorp Arch.
However, given a deal is yet to be finalised, it is feeling more and more unlikely Kouyate will be moving to Leeds, though he is not the only option being looked at.
Daniel Farke suggested he is ‘carefully optimistic’ someone will come in during his pre-Sheffield United press conference, but does not want their search to extend beyond the next two weeks.
Leeds starlet Luca Thomas closing in on loan move
Leeds have had to promote a number of youngsters to their bench this season as a result of the injury issues over the last month or so.
James Debayo, Charlie Crew and Sam Chambers have all been part of Leeds’ matchday squad on several occasions, but are yet to get their first taste of action.
However, one Leeds U21s star still awaiting his first opportunity in the senior side is Luca Thomas, despite netting six goals in five PL2 appearances already this season.
Thomas is now 20 and out of contract at Leeds next summer and so this is a huge year for his chances of making it at Elland Road, but it appears as though he will have to prove himself elsewhere.
Thomas has been on trial at York City over the last few days and via an interview with BBC North Yorkshire Sport, manager Adam Hinshelwood says he has been impressed with what they’ve seen.
He said: “Leeds have let him train with us for the last few days so we can cast our eye over him and we’ve done that. We’re impressed with what we’ve seen and it’ll be down to us to have a chat with Tony, and then we’ll speak to Leeds on what’s best.
“I have been really encouraged by what we’ve seen of him and we’re hoping there will be something there.”
Why can York City sign someone from Leeds out loan outside of the transfer window?
Leeds would love the opportunity to bring someone in on loan right now to cope with their list of injuries in midfield.
However, they are not able to do so. That is because sides in the top four divisions of English football are not allowed to make emergency loan signings outside of transfer windows, a rule that came into place ahead of the 2016/17.
For clubs in Non-League, though, that is not the case, which is why third place in the National League York City can bring Thomas to the club.
According to the York Press, City are hopeful of getting a deal done before the weekend, though the length is yet to be revealed.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
