Ao Tanaka agent speaks out as Leeds United exit already touted
Agent Marijo Knez believes it is only a matter of time before questions are asked about why Ao Tanaka is plying his trade with Leeds United in the Championship.
Tanaka has adapted to life at Elland Road with ease since his £3.3million deadline day move from Fortuna Dusseldorf [Yorkshire Evening Post], maintaining the high standards in midfield throughout the prolonged absence of duo Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev.
His performances continue to catch the eye, and the Japanese international’s agent spoke to Fussball News [1 December] as to whether he believes his client is too good to be playing in the second tier.
He said: “I assume so. With his style, he can be good for a possession-based team
“One that wants to play a neat style of football. Many observers may soon be asking why he only plays in the second English league. I am firmly convinced that he can make it in the Premier League.”
Leeds United have to secure promotion to retain Ao Tanaka
Knez explained in the same interview how Daniel Farke convinced Tanaka to snub interest from Bundesliga sides for a move to West Yorkshire so, for now, supporters can rest easily knowing he chose to play his football at Elland Road this season.
However, his agent’s words ring true: Tanaka’s unbelievably consistent displays in the Championship suggest he is playing at a level below this station, and it is inevitable he will be playing top-flight football next term, whether that is in England or not.
Therefore, securing a long-awaited return to the Premier League this season will be the requirement to ensure Tanaka remains at Elland Road beyond the current campaign.
Angus Kinnear deserves recognition for securing what proved to be one of the division’s best players as it stands for a measly £3.3m outlay – should top-flight outfits come knocking on the door in January or the summer, Leeds will undoubtedly receive an eight-figure fee for the 26-year-old.
Of course, the Whites faithful would prefer Tanaka sees out his four-year deal at Elland Road, but that will be entirely dependent on how the season plays out, considering the tight PSR constraints afflicting EFL clubs.
Indeed, Leeds may have no option to accept a big-money bid to steady the ship should another year in the second tier await.
Knez has certainly amplified his client’s situation only four months into his Leeds career, and this will undoubtedly not be the last time Tanaka’s name is mentioned alongside the Premier League.
In other Leeds United news, Daniel Farke has an easy Sam Byram and Junior Firpo contract decision to make for the Whites.
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