Leeds United fans will love Julian Brandt trait, it's similar to cult Elland Road figure

Leeds United are interested in getting a deal done for German midfielder Julian Brandt in a deal that'd help instantly enhance the squad.

The 30-year-old's time at Borussia Dortmund is set to come to a close at the end of the month, leaving him on the free agent market.

As a result, the Whites are among a handful of clubs interested.

Daniel Farke's side are aiming for further progression in the Premier League, after surviving at a relative canter at the back end of last term.

Following their ascent to the top flight last May, the West Yorkshire outfit worked well to secure real characters as they aimed for survival.

And in Brandt, Farke would absolutely be adding another one to his ranks.

Julian Brandt carries an unfair reputation

Brandt's career is a prime example as to just how important perception is in football.

A lovely player to watch with beautiful technique, an eye for a pass and not much pace to go with, he has carried the tag of a 'luxury player', with inconsistencies, while being a character you are unable to rely on.

This all comes from his style of play, with his more elegant and nonchalant approach forming a false representation of the attacking midfielder.

In fact, this could not be further from the truth, with Brandt's character actually being a key element of what makes him the player he is.

In Germany, the former international is always one to front up to criticism, previously saying: "Of course, you can't help but notice it. You don't even have a chance to shut it out.

"The worst thing for me is the pity I've received. That people came up to me and said: 'That's a lot, tough and unjustified.' It's not about me. I don't have an ego issue with that.

"I don't have to be the one who's constantly in the newspapers. But if that's the case because the club is going through a tough time and someone has to be found to take the heat, then I'm happy to do it. No problem."

Appearing in the Champions League aged 17, Brandt broke into German football as the most highly rated youngster at the time, with his relaxed body language being the factor that has created the false perception.

He has been dubbed as a "freigest," or "free spirit" in the past, and that is exactly what he is on the pitch.

It is important to note that this can coexist with the fact he is an immense character, though - something that is often forgotten.

Leeds and Brandt combination could be a blast to the past

If there is one type of player adored at Elland Road, it is a character, someone who can be relied upon to gel with the fanbase.

On the eye, Brandt is fantastic to watch, and possesses talent that sits in the genuine top tier of the European talent pool.

He can drift in and out of matches, but that is the sort of player he is.

But despite his unfair reputation, he is someone who would immediately win the hearts of Leeds fans - particularly in his ability to take criticism, at a club where this can sometimes run rife.

Fans may see bits of cult figure Pablo Hernandez in him - another whose reputation was that of a luxury player, but arrived and 'got' the club like no other individual did.

If Brandt showcases half of his talent at Elland Road, Leeds fans would be in for a treat, and any misconceptions about him would soon be altered.