Leeds set for Farke talks as injuries and exits loom
Simon Jordan disputes Danny Murphy’s view, claiming poor West Ham ‘won’t beat Leeds’ on the final day. Farke’s side, buoyed by a Brighton win, are backed to go for victory away.
Wrexham eye out-of-contract Karl Darlow as first-choice. Leeds are considering a one-year extension after his key clean sheets and April Save of the Month, but his No 1 status at Elland Road is uncertain.
Leeds are linked with an ‘ambitious’ move for Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott, reportedly out of Arne Slot’s plans after a stalled Villa loan. His creativity could suit Farke, though £35m is steep.
Director Peter Lowy says Leeds’ four-year plan was done in three and they ‘need to sit down’ to set a new three-year plan, signalling talks with Daniel Farke about future objectives.
Troy Deeney picked Karl Darlow and Joe Rodon in his BBC Team of the Week after Leeds beat Brighton 1-0, hailing Darlow’s saves against 3.06 xG and Rodon’s ‘monstrous’ display in a clean sheet.
Freiburg have made a formal enquiry for Willy Gnonto, with talks ongoing. Their Europa League final result could accelerate a move, potentially offering the Leeds winger European or Champions League football.
Southampton, expelled from the playoffs for multiple spying breaches, cite Leeds’ 2019 fine. The piece argues the comparison is flawed due to new rules and knockout context justifying expulsion.
Hull City want to sign Leeds loanee Joe Gelhardt permanently. If Hull win Saturday’s playoff final, promotion would fast-track talks for the forward, who enters his final Elland Road year.
Noah Okafor has been called up by Switzerland for the World Cup despite recent calf issues, raising Leeds’ fears over the winger’s fitness after an eight-goal season marked by injuries.
Anton Stach collected Leeds’ Goal of the Season on crutches and in a protective boot after his ankle injury vs Brighton, putting the Germany midfielder’s World Cup involvement in doubt.
