Leeds United ended the summer transfer window with the type of recruitment which suggests that they’re in for an excellent season. If there was any antidote for second-season syndrome, it is the millions that the Whites spent on Tarik Muharemovic, James Trafford and others.
It’s not just the only way they impressed, however. Those at Elland Road also did well to keep hold of talented stars – only losing Pascal Struijk to Brighton.
That in itself will go a long way to taking them into mid-table and perhaps even beyond in what would be an incredible achievement for Daniel Farke.
|
Position |
From |
Fee |
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Harry Wilson |
Winger |
Fulham |
Free |
|
Tarik Muharemović |
Centre-back |
Sassuolo |
~£34m |
|
James Trafford |
Goalkeeper |
Manchester City |
~£40m |
|
Nico Elvedi |
Centre-back |
Borussia Mönchengladbach |
~£8m |
|
Michael Zetterer |
Goalkeeper |
Eintracht Frankfurt |
~£4.2m |
|
Jean-Mattéo Bahoya |
Winger |
Eintracht Frankfurt |
Loan + obligation to buy |
There was a stage in which Farke’s position was in doubt last season, before he changed formation and changed his fortunes. Six months later, he has been backed in full. It has been a sensational turnaround.
The 49ers deserve credit, too. They had opportunities to sell key players after Struijk, but refused. One of them was Noah Okafor as Sunderland came knocking.
The forward took a while to get going in his debut campaign, but a late flurry eventually reflected a solid campaign with eight goals and three assists in all competitions.
Leeds rejected Sunderland offer for Noah Okafor
As reported by Sky Sports’ Zinny Boswell, Leeds rejected Sunderland’s offer for Okafor on deadline day, as the Black Cats scrambled for attacking options amid a crazy saga that eventually ended with Malick Fofana landing on Wearside.
It’s a sign of intent from those at Elland Road, who kept hold of an important attacking star whilst also adding to their frontline with Jean-Matteo Bahoya.
Farke would have been more relieved than anyone, having told reporters after signing Okafor last summer: “We’ve spoken about wanting to bring in some quality signings for our attack, and Noah fits this perfectly.
“He’s the ideal age, has played for two big clubs in Italy, and featured in the Champions League for Red Bull Salzburg.
“He’s a player of high potential — he more or less has all the skills. We will provide him with full backing and a good stage to perhaps find a bit more consistency compared to the last couple of years.”
The aim for the forward is to now keep his place amid growing competition. Do that and he could play a crucial part in what may well be a special campaign for all involved.
