Daniel Farke makes ‘driving seat’ claim over Leeds United exits in transfer update
Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has stated that the club are more in the driving seat when it comes to departing players as they edge towards the end of the transfer window.
Farke claimed that, as the window draws to a close, the club’s position when it comes to keeping hold of their star players gets stronger, as they are able to stick to their demands.
He also stated that there were conversations and a recognition within the club that August would be a difficult month when it comes to transfer speculation, as teams were always likely to step up their interest.
Speaking to the media on 16 August ahead of Friday night’s clash with West Brom, reported via Leeds Live [13:33], the boss stated: “We spoke quite open, honest and transparent that it would be a bumpy August.
“The closer we edge towards the end of the transfer window the more and more we are in control of the situation. This is what’s happened over the last days. It’s eased up. The closer we edge towards the window we are more in the driving seat.”
Trying desperately to hold on
It has been a turbulent summer for Leeds, with a complete overhaul of the first-team squad completely necessary due to an exodus of stars following their relegation from the Premier League, with very little money coming in to compensate for the moves.
As the window nears an end, Leeds will still be hopeful of retaining some of their Premier League stars despite interest from elsewhere, as their bargaining position gets stronger as time goes by, particularly with regard to Willy Gnonto.
Leeds have been steadfast in their stance that they will not be selling the Italian this summer, with a very high price set on his head amid interest from Everton and Crystal Palace as well as Italian sides. The later the deal drags on, the more likely it seems he will stay unless a big offer arrives through desperation.
From a fans’ point of view, they will be longing for the end of the transfer window, when the focus moves away from who will and won’t be at the club, and more towards who can perform for them in a key Championship season.
In other Leeds United news, one exit-bound ace is still training at Thorpe Arch as talks are downplayed.