Ao Tanaka has joined Leeds United. (Credit: Imago)

Ao Tanaka debut update emerges as Leeds United close in on last-minute transfer

Dan is a sports journalist who graduated from the University of Gloucestershire with a first-class degree in Sports Journalism. Dan has a huge love for football and has spent time inside newsrooms throughout his time at university. Away from his laptop, he enjoys playing Sunday League football, or watching whatever football, cricket or whatever sport he can find.

Published on:

29 Aug 2024, 9:10 am

Ao Tanaka should be able to make his Leeds United debut against Hull City after late transfer developments at Elland Road, according to The Yorkshire Evening Post.

The outlet reported on its website on Thursday (29 August) that the Fortuna Dusseldorf star will be available for selection against the Tigers if the EFL approve his paperwork by 12pm on Friday 30 August.

Tanaka flew to the UK for a medical on Thursday morning and there is a realistic chance that the 25-year-old's move to Elland Road will be confirmed today giving the EFL plenty of time to process the formalities.

Whether or not Daniel Farke will throw the midfielder straight into the fold for Saturday (31 August) afternoon's clash remains to be seen.

Will Ao Tanaka exit Fortuna Dusseldorf amid Leeds United transfer rumours?

Farke isn't known for throwing players straight into the fold as soon as they complete transfers to Leeds United, but the Whites boss' hand could be forced when it comes to the clash with Hull City this weekend.

Leeds have been padding out their first-team squad with several young academy prospects so far this season and while that may remain the case against the Tigers, Farke will be keen to have more experienced heads to turn to.

Daniel Farke is in his second season as Leeds United manager

Whether or not that will include Tanaka or be limited to just Manor Solomon and Largie Ramazani remains to be seen, but those in attendance at Elland Road on Saturday will likely see at least one first-team debut.

Hopefully, the finishing touches can be placed on Tanaka's deal quickly so that the EFL have plenty of time to process the paperwork ahead of the final game before the September international break.

Now that the Whites have got their first league win of the season on the board against Sheffield Wednesday last time out, they will be eager to head into the break with eight points under their belt.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites have responded after speculation emerged that Joel Piroe has been offered to a rival in a swap deal

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