Leeds United were close to two January transfers as Daniel Farke speaks out
Daniel Farke has admitted that Leeds United have been close to a couple of deals in the January transfer window, but they didn’t work out.
The Whites were said to be closing in on a move for St Truiden’s Daiki Hashioka, but the Belgian side were put off by Leeds asking for a loan deal after the 24-year-old went off injured against Union St Gilloise. [Daily Mail]
Elland Road has seen several outgoings this month, with Leo Hjelde, Darko Gyabi, Luke Ayling, Robin Koch and Lewis Bate all departing but there have been no signings so far.
Sharing what Farke said, Phil Hay wrote via X on Wednesday (31 January): “Farke said Leeds were close to a couple of deals which didn’t work out in the end. Hinted that injury was a factor – which would apply to Hashioka.”
Disappointing window
Many Leeds fans were expecting the club to be reasonably active during the current transfer window and, if they meant just departures, they would be right.
After Farke’s open desire to bring in at least one new full-back, compounded by Spence’s loan deal being cut short and Ayling joining Middlesbrough until the end of the season, it is a surprise nothing has happened there yet.
That has not happened, though, and with only hours until the deadline left, there could be no incoming arrivals at Elland Road despite a busy upcoming schedule for the Whites.
Especially in defence, injuries have played a key role in shaping some matchday squads in recent weeks, with Ethan Ampadu having to deputise at centre-back alongside Wales compatriot Joe Rodon.
With no signings expected in the next few hours, Farke will need to play his cards perfectly if Leeds are to achieve Premier League promotion this season and escape the Championship over the likes of Ipswich Town and Southampton.
In other Leeds United news, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Wilfried Gnonto’s new contract is getting closer at Elland Road
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