How Leeds United are at centre of Julian Brandt 'breakthrough' as decision day looms

Leeds United remain at the front of the queue to sign free agent midfielder Julian Brandt.

The 48-cap Germany international is one of the hottest free agents anywhere out there after leaving Borussia Dortmund last month.

Brandt has spent his entire 13-season career in the Bundesliga so far, accruing 382 appearances in that competition alone.

MOT Leeds News recently reported that Leeds have already tabled a three-year offer for Brandt.

The Whites are prepared to be patient and wait for the German to make a decision on his future.

And a fresh update emerging from Germany has now shed light on why Leeds lead the way.

Why are Leeds at front of the queue for Julian Brandt?

Well, by default effectively, as no other teams have yet to make a concrete proposal - or at least not one that has been picked up by the media.

As per Wednesday's print edition of Sachsische Zeitung, Leeds' formal offer to Brandt is considered a "breakthrough" in his future.

Various clubs are interested and will now have to decide what to do, with Brandt's decision likely to be made very soon.

The 30-year-old has been happy to remain patient, as have Leeds, but the new season is now less than a month away from starting.

Brandt snub could leave Leeds in awkward position

Leeds are about to splash out a further £40million on James Trafford, taking their summer spending to around £74m.

That is offset slightly by Pascal Struijk joining Brighton for a fee rising to £20m earlier in the window.

Still, Leeds do not have money to burn and need to be smart with their remaining signings.

If Brandt can be snapped up for free, as was the case with Harry Wilson, then bringing in four quality additions for £74m can be considered extremely good business.

Should the German head elsewhere, though, Leeds will need to reach pretty deep into their pockets if they are to find someone of similar quality elsewhere.

Either way, a decision should be made pretty soon.