Leeds United now open talks to sign £8m Brazilian after switching to 3-5-2

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Daniel Farke’s decision to switch to a 3-5-2 formation has changed the landscape of what Leeds might need to do in the winter transfer window.

Previously, it was felt another winger was needed – hence the deadline day attempt to sign Harry Wilson from Fulham to bolster the right flank.

Now, however, the 3-5-2 shape has no natural space for a traditional winger, so Leeds might need a rethink.

It appears a rethink is taking place at Elland Road, as Tutto Mercato Web now state that Leeds have made an approach to sign Natan from Real Betis.

Leeds United ask Real Betis what it would take to sign Natan

The Italian news outlet believe Leeds have just made an enquiry about the Brazilian defender.

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The likes of Joel Piroe and Willy Gnonto are struggling to force their way into Farke's plans.

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Natan – who Real Betis signed from Napoli in June 2025 for €9m (£8m) after an initial loan spell – has been a key man since moving to Spain permanently, making 14 starts in La Liga so far this season in the centre of defence.

Tutto Mercato Web do not disclose any price tag for the South American, but do mention that Everton are also keen on signing the 24-year-old.

In fact, the story says both Leeds and Everton have admired Natan since the summer of 2024.

Switch to 3-5-2 opens the door for another defender at Leeds United

Previously, Jaka Bijol was struggling for action along with Sebastiaan Bornauw as Farke used a 4-2-3-1 formation, so nobody felt another central defender would be needed.

However, with Bijol now starting in the 3-5-2 shape alongside Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk, Bornauw is the only backup option in the centre of defence, so the door is open to another defender like Natan joining.

Leeds are also looking at Tylel Tati and Chibuike Nwaiwu of Nantes and Wolfsberger respectively – both of whom also play in the centre of defence.

These rumours strongly suggest Farke plans to stick with his new 3-5-2 formation and beef up his centre-back options in the winter transfer window, but only time will tell who is targeted for certain.