Leeds United transfer news as Daiki Hashioka loan twist emerges at Elland Road
A deal for St Truiden’s highly-rated Daiki Hashioka was “there for the taking” for Leeds United before Luton Town stepped in to seal his signature, according to Daily Mail’s Mail Plus.
The newspaper reported via its newsletter [29 January] that the Whites had the opportunity to sign the full-back but asked for a loan deal instead, amid concerns over the player’s recent injury.
It is understood that the Hatters were prepared to purchase Hashioka on a permanent deal, with the signing set to be completed later on Monday (29 January).
Too slow
Though the Hashioka news has been a recent development, it still feels like Daniel Farke’s side have missed out on an exciting deal. Some may say it is better safe than sorry, but Luton might have just picked up a bargain because of that.
Considering Leeds’ search for a new full-back before the window closes on 1 February, the Whites could regret missing out on the Japan international who is capable of deputising on either flank.
The voids left by Djed Spence and Luke Ayling are yet to be filled, which could be something that comes back to bite Leeds further into the season. However, for now, Junior Firpo is in red-hot form and Archie Gray remains comfortable out of position.
Many Leeds fans are frustrated by the number of outgoings compared to signings, with Leo Hjelde, Darko Gyabi, Spence, Ayling and Robin Koch all potentially leaving without any replacements.
It would be expected, considering Farke’s open desire to bring in a new full-back, that the club would be more active in bringing in a signing. There were clearly risks to be weighed up, however, and St Truiden got impatient.
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay has shared the latest picture of the transfer window at Elland Road with the deadline fast approaching.
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