Lille left ‘helpless’ after Gudmundsson transfer news at Leeds United
Gabriel Gudmundsson has completed his move to Leeds United.
Gudmundsson, 26, departed French side Lille for Elland Road in a £10million deal.
The Swedish international made his debut against Manchester United on Saturday (19 July), coming on as a second-half substitute in a 0-0 draw.
Gudmundsson has arrived to replace the outgoing Junior Firpo, who left to rejoin Real Betis on a free transfer after five years in Yorkshire.
The Swede’s departure has caused problems for his old side, however.
Lille struggling for left-back depth
Lille looked to have already made a mistake by letting Gudmundsson go.
La Voix des Sports has reported in its print edition (21 July, pg 21) that the French side are short of left-backs ahead of the new season.
The 26-year-old isn’t the only left-back that looks to be out the door in France this summer, as negotiations with Ismaily over a new contract are not close, leaving Lille “helpless.”
This leaves youth prospect Vincent Burlet as the only option, having returned from a loan spell at Le Mans.
However, his struggles during Lille’s friendly against Como have led to speculation that a new defender will need to be acquired.
Leeds still need to strengthen this summer
Gudmundsson has solved Leeds’ left-back dilemma following Firpo’s departure, but to say their business is anywhere near complete would be naive to say the least.
| Gabriel Gudmundsson stats 2024/25 | Total |
| Appearances | 45 |
| Progressive carries per 90 | 3.45 |
| Successful take-ons per 90 | 1.15 |
The Whites have fallen behind fellow promoted side Sunderland in terms of reinforcements, with many suggesting that the Black Cats have already made up the 24-point gap between the two sides from last season.
With the Swede and Sean Longstaff now confirmed, Leeds look to be heading in the right direction to rectify their window, but more is still needed ahead of a tough campaign.
Sign up for the MOT Leeds News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Leeds United news sent straight to your phone.