Leeds United fans will love what Daniel Farke said about Noah Okafor ahead of Arsenal
Leeds United have completed their ninth signing of the summer transfer window.
Noah Okafor said he is “really excited” after his arrival at Elland Road was officially confirmed on Thursday, 21 August, signing from AC Milan.
Leeds agreed a deal worth slightly more than £17.3million to sign the forward, who is expected to play on the left of the attack for Daniel Farke.
The Whites are hoping to build on a superb start to the Premier League season, as Leeds take on Arsenal at The Emirates on Saturday.
Noah Okafor ‘has everything to impress’ says Daniel Farke
Okafor first attracted eyes for his superb form in the Champions League and the Austrian top-flight for Red Bull Salzburg.
One stunning moment saw the Switzerland international nutmeg both Pierre Kalulu and Mike Maignan to score against AC Milan – the club that would sign him in the following summer.
But in Italy, Okafor struggled for a starting role amid injuries and competition, spending the second half of last season on loan at Napoli.
Leeds are willing to offer the forward a more prominent role in the Premier League, however, and have handed the 25-year-old a four-year deal at Elland Road.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s trip to Arsenal, Farke gave his thoughts on the signing, saying: “Player with high potential.
“We will provide him with all the backing to find consistency. He has the skills to make an important impact.
“He is a player who has his favourite position on the left wing. It fits perfectly. He can play as the second striker or the false nine.
“He can offer goals and assists; he has delivered a few for AC Milan and scored in the Champions League. Really good pace and dribbler.
“Strong player, but don’t want to praise too much – I want to let him deliver. He has everything to impress.”
Daniel Farke says whether Noah Okafor will feature vs Arsenal
Saturday’s fixture will mark Leeds’ first away trip of the season, and Arsenal will provide a tough test for Farke’s men.
Mikel Arteta’s side have finished second for three consecutive Premier League seasons, and are on the hunt for a strong start to the campaign after beating Manchester United last week.
| Noah Okafor | Serie A 2024/25 (per 90) |
| Progressive carries | 5.71 |
| Successful take-ons | 3.42 |
| Progressive passes received | 10.92 |
Leeds will look to frustrate the home side, and hit back with counter-attacks – a plan that the pace of Okafor would be hugely beneficial for.
When asked about the forward’s chances of involvement, Farke said: “It’s at least possible. He doesn’t need three or four weeks to build up to fitness. Let’s see next few days, and we will make a decision.”
All eyes will be on Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin over the coming days.
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