Leeds United and Sheffield United now battling to sign midfielder currently playing in the UAE

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Leeds United are far from knowing which division they will be playing football in next season, even if Daniel Farke is “100% convinced” his side will be in the Premier League for 2025-26.

Leeds have slipped into third place with six Championship games to play, after drawing against Luton on Saturday. Burnley’s away win over Coventry has taken Scott Parker’s men top, unbeaten in 26 matches.

Sheffield United’s shock 1-0 loss to Oxford United came at the perfect time for Leeds, making a point at Luton look a whole lot better than it would have been had Chris Wilder’s men secured an expected win.

According to new reports, Leeds have not stopped their work in the transfer market and scouring the world for new signings even though they are unsure if it will be the Championship or the Premier League.

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Leeds and Sheffield United want to sign Brahima Diarra

Africa Foot say Leeds are one of a number of clubs looking to sign Brahima Diarra from Al-Wahda FC, who are based in United Arab Emirates. The Malian player left Huddersfield in 2024 for the Middle East.

The report says Leeds and Sheffield United are two of a handful of clubs interested. Leicester, expected to be relegated, are also linked while Turkish sides Sivasspor and Trabzonspor are also touted with a move.

Swiss side Young Boys, too. But remaining in the Middle East is also an option with Al Ain tabling a £2.5m bid to land Diarra while UAE sides Sharjah FC and Al Wasl could also make a move to land the midfielder.

Brahima Diarra experienced in the Championship at Huddersfield

Despite still only being 21 years of age, the Mali U23 ace has clocked up four games shy of half a century with Huddersfield – 42 of which came in the Championship. He has laid on four assists for Huddersfield.

It feels like a move for Diarra would be a signing made if Leeds do not get promoted. With Leicester now interested, it suggests that they are planning for the Championship with The Foxes 15 points adrift.

While it does feel like a random link with a player unknown to Leeds fans, Leeds have been linked with Diarra before. Last summer, Leeds were said to be interested and eyes may have been kept on Diarra.