Leeds eye Nick Pope as Tanaka set to stay
Bradley Johnson starred for Derby after a £6m move from Norwich, prompting Leeds regret as their former midfielder left Elland Road for free in 2011 and later shone in the Championship.
Fulham assess targets including Arne Slot after Marco Silva, which could strengthen a Leeds rival. Leeds plan stability with Daniel Farke after a 14th-place finish despite a tighter SCR-shaped budget.
Norwich lead the race to sign Largie Ramazani, offering higher fee and wages than Valencia. Leeds seek a sale as the winger does not fit Farke’s system.
Leeds tie Ethan Ampadu to 2030 and plan a rebuild. Farke wants three upgrades for his 3-5-2, targeting defence, midfield and a striker after last season’s 14th-place finish.
Leeds weigh selling Lucas Perri and target Newcastle’s Nick Pope, with Ipswich also in for the £10m keeper. Karl Darlow set for new deal as Daniel Farke pushes for an experienced number 1.
Goalkeeper Illan Meslier will depart on a free at month’s end after no minutes in 2025/26. Once a promotion key and clean sheet record holder, he leaves to revive his career.
Fulham’s Harry Wilson is set to leave despite a new deal offer. Leeds join Aston Villa and Everton in pursuit, with the Wales forward being sold a move.
Beren Cross says Leeds are happy with Ao Tanaka after his late-season run, including at Old Trafford. He is likely to stay unless a significant offer arrives, with other midfielders likelier to be sold.
Leeds target Sporting centre-back Ousmane Diomande, monitoring him at the World Cup. Sporting want at least €50m, though €40m plus bonuses could work. Player prefers England, but deal is complex.
Leeds reportedly join the race for a £22m ‘complete’ player likened to Stuart Dallas as they seek another smart addition after hits like Anton Stach and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
