Credit: Imago

Kevin Bannon

Fri 26 September 2025 17:40, UK

Leeds United and Manchester United have one of the biggest rivalries in world football, let alone the Premier League.

Leeds don’t face their rivals from Lancashire until January next year, but they have both been in the news over a potential transfer.

Kobbie Mainoo was linked with a transfer to Elland Road in the summer, with a possible loan move in store for the midfielder.

Manchester United ultimately blocked Leeds’ move for Mainoo, with the Englishman staying at Old Trafford.

However, former Man United striker Teddy Sheringham has spoken about Mainoo in a new interview and said how he would be a perfect fit for Daniel Farke’s side.

Mainoo was described as a “generational talent” by then-teammate Rasmus Hojlund last season but has fallen out of favour this campaign.

If a deal does materialise – likely on loan – for Mainoo to join Leeds, the England international would join a rare list of players to have crossed the Old Trafford to Elland Road divide.

Dan James most recent player to cross Man United to Leeds divide

Dan James signed for Leeds back in 2021, with Manchester United charging £25million for the Welshman’s services.

The winger became just the tenth player to move from Old Trafford to Elland Road, and the second most expensive between the two clubs.

James has been brilliant for Leeds in the Championship, although that has yet to be seen at the Premier League level.

Leeds will be hoping he can rediscover some of his form from last season and help secure their Premier League safety this campaign.

The other players to have joined Leeds from Man United

James is the latest player to cross the divide, and could yet be joined by Mainoo, but there have been others in the past.

Cameron Borthwick-Jackson was the most recent player before James, but he only joined on loan and made just one appearance for the Whites.

Lee Sharpe became Leeds’ joint-record signing in August 1996 when they paid £4.5m for his services. His time at Elland Road was ruined by injuries, and he only played 37 times across three seasons.

Johnny Giles was the best signing Leeds made from the Red Devils when the Irishman joined in 1963. The midfielder is widely regarded as one of the best players seen at the club and went on to win two league titles and an FA Cup.

Scott Wootton, Liam Miller, Danny Pugh, Gordon Strachan, Freddie Goodwin and Brian Greenhoff are the others to make up that list.

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