Leeds United have to act quick to sign Wilfried Gnonto replacement, face Southampton battle for Manuel Benson

The January transfer window has been rather quiet so far at Elland Road, with Leeds United focusing on shipping players out before adding to their ranks for the second half of the campaign.

However, as we enter the second half of January, things seem to be heating up for Daniel Farke and those above him and it finally seems as though the Whites could be set to begin adding to their playing squad.

One player who is reportedly of interest to the Whites is Burnley winger Manuel Benson [Sacha Tavolieri, 18 January], however, the pathway to his signature may not be quite as clear as supporters would have hoped.

Tavolieri also reported via his X account on Wednesday (16 January) that the Belgian winger wants to join Championship rivals Southampton this month, with the Saints strongly pushing to secure his services on an initial loan deal.

The race for the 26-year-old's signature could have huge ramifications in both the play-off and automatic promotion race as the current battle is between Leeds United and Southampton to close the gap to Leicester City and Ipswich Town at the top of the table.

However, Farke's need for a new wide option could be set to become even more pressing as Wilfried Gnonto is once again being linked with a move away from Elland Road this month.

Tavolieri reported that the Whites expect to sell the Italian winger to West Ham United before the end of January and view Benson as a potential replacement for the 20-year-old, should he complete the switch to the London Stadium.

Leeds cannot leave Farke short of attacking options for the second half of the campaign. Although Gnonto has been a bit part player in the first half of the season, he has the talent to turn a game on its head and that is an important asset in the German's team.

Those in charge at Elland Road have to get the wheels in motion to beat Southampton to Benson's signature. If they miss out on the 26-year-old, particularly at the hands of the Saints, it could be a huge blow to their promotion hopes.

Hopefully, Leeds will get a bid ready to ensure that they come out on top in this race.

In other Leeds United news, a new twist has emerged in Luke Ayling's farewell after his January transfer to Middlesbrough

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