‘Ao Tanaka sale could be on the cards’ after latest Leeds United transfer news
Ao Tanaka has been a crucial player for Leeds United this season, but his importance could weaken heading into the new campaign.
Ahead of their clash with Oxford United, Leeds are exactly where they want to be with just four games remaining.
Daniel Farke’s side look nailed on to secure promotion now, with a five-point advantage over Sheffield United, who still have Burnley to play.
Throughout that success, Tanaka has been a pivotal player for the Whites, but with one of their transfer priorities emerging, a summer sale may not be ruled out yet.
Leeds eye midfield reinforcements
The signing of a striker will undoubtedly be a priority for Leeds this summer, though recent links suggest they are just as keen to add more midfield options and quality to their squad.
Ethan Ampadu had been linked with a return to Elland Road, and Julian Weigl was linked with a reunion with Farke, having spent time together at Borussia Mönchengladbach.
| Championship table (top three) | Games played | Goal difference | Points |
| 1 Leeds | 42 | 53 | 88 |
| 2 Burnley | 42 | 44 | 88 |
| 3 Sheffield Utd | 42 | 24 | 83 |
With such high-profile midfielders linked, it is evident that Farke wants a new starting midfielder, which may, in turn, push Tanaka slightly down the pecking order.
While Premier League football is and certainly will be a squad game, how Tanaka reacts to that is yet to be seen, though there is a chance that he looks to make the most of his stock being high and seek a new adventure.
Farke can all but seal Leeds promotion tonight
A win for Leeds against Oxford could put them eight points clear of Sheffield United, depending on their result this weekend.
With promotion now as close as it has been all season, Leeds will have one eye on the transfer business needed in the summer transfer window in order to have any chance of staying up.
The gulf in quality between the two divisions has been showcased by the fact that all three promoted teams look set for a return to the Championship, despite some relatively heavy investment.
Leeds will need to recruit well this summer and ensure that any concerns over the playing squad are addressed immediately.