Leeds United appear to be slacking in this January transfer window. Those around them are making or nearing new signings, whilst the Whites appear to be quite quiet right now.
In fairness, Daniel Farke did say Leeds United would be quiet in January. But that was before back-to-back draws to begin 2025, with the most recent match against Hull City showing many of the team’s shortcomings.
However, Leeds continues to be linked with new names. And there are numerous centre-backs linked with winter moves to Elland Road, with Farke particularly lacking in that area right now.
Worryingly, Pascal Struijk missed the Hull City game due to an injury, albeit it was not serious, and the Dutchman has also been linked with Tottenham, highlighting Leeds’ need for a new centre-back.
And, of all the players mentioned with Leeds, RC Lens’ Abdukodir Khusanov is by far the most promising.
Abdukodir Khusanov agrees to personal terms with Manchester City.
Leeds reportedly proposed £16.5 million for Khusanov in January, although the rumors were never confirmed. It highlighted Leeds’ ambition, however Khusanov has subsequently been linked to PSG and even Real Madrid.
However, Manchester City has been strongly associated with Khusanov. According to writers Ben Jacobs and Fabrizio Romano, Pep Guardiola’s struggling team is on the verge of signing the Uzbeki international.
Romano claims City are ‘closing in’ on Khusanov after Guardiola given the move the ‘go-ahead’, adding that the 20-year-old has ‘accepted personal conditions’ and ‘wants the move’ to City. Jacobs has stated that the move will cost City ‘north of £30million’.
Leeds United are now focused on one centre-back.
Khusanov never seemed like a viable objective for Leeds. In reality, among all the centre-backs discussed in January, Nico Elvedi of Borussia Monchengladbach appears to be Farke’s primary aim.
According to reports, Monchengladbach is concerned about Leeds’ interest in Elvedi, who is believed to have an £8 million release clause.
Farke had previously managed Elvedi for Monchengladbach. However, the German club is reluctant to lose the Swiss international as they prepare for a European campaign next season.
Leeds return to FA Cup action on Saturday evening against Yorkshire rivals Harrogate Town.
