Credit: Imago/Rijnmond on Youtube.

Declan Carr

Sat 2 May 2026 11:40, UK

Leeds United‘s chances of signing Ayase Ueda have surely increased after what Robin van Persie said about his future.

The Feyenoord striker has 26 goals and two assists so far this season in 38 matches in all competitions, which is a brilliant record.

Leeds have been linked with a move for the Japan international and the former Manchester United hitman has admitted that he does not know whether he will able to keep the forward.

Daniel Farke‘s side need attacking reinforcements in the summer, if they are to push on and become an established Premier League side.

Ueda would fit the bill for Leeds, and it appears that he may be available in the summer.

What did Van Persie say about Leeds target Ueda?

Leeds could beef up their options with Ueda, as they have been given encouragement in their pursuit of the attacker.

It does not seem like he will be in the Eredivisie for much longer, as Van Persie confirmed he does have a clue whether the striker will be with his club next season.

In his latest comments, reported by Dutch outlet 1908, he said: “From my point of view, I hope he is with us next year. He is extremely important to us and to our style of play.

“From his point of view, it might be a good time to make a move, but that is not up to me.

“I have no idea if that [keeping the striker] is realistic, but as I said: I hope he stays.”

Why Leeds can convince Ueda to move

Leeds could definitely show the 38-cap star that his future lies at Elland Road for several reasons.

Firstly, they are clearly heading in the right direction, as they are nine points above the relegation zone and reached the FA Cup semi-final this season.

Secondly, his international teammate, Ao Tanaka is already among the ranks in LS11, so he would find it less difficult to settle into English football and his potential new surroundings if he had someone that he knew at his new club.

Thirdly, the wages that the Whites could offer would surely be higher than what his current club are giving him, and money talks in football these days, with Premier League riches being more convincing than other divisions.

Finally, while injury issues have deserted Dominic Calvert-Lewin this season, he may well be back on the sidelines next season, which would allow Ueda to play much more often.

Eventually, there will be a permanent spot when the England hopeful eventually moves on, and the Japanese ace will be in the running to take that starting spot.