Leeds United ‘may attempt’ to seal transfer of Lionel Messi-esque player
Leeds United are expected to prioritise the summer transfer of an attacking player, according to Carlton Palmer.
The Whites appear on course to secure promotion back to the Premier League under the stewardship of Daniel Farke.
Currently, the Whites have a number of attacking options but Manor Solomon may not return to Elland Road next season.
Lionel Messi-esque Marcus Edwards may be a Leeds United target
Leeds have been previously linked with Sporting CP owned Marcus Edwards who could’ve joined in January too.
He joined Burnley on loan and their head of recruitment George Foster-Vigors confirmed that a move to West Yorkshire also would’ve tempted him.
However, with promotion now in touching distance, the Whites have be planning for life in the Premier League.
Carlton Palmer believes that the English winger, who was likened to Lionel Messi by Mauricio Pochettino, would be on their radar.
He told Football League World: “Leeds United were in the race for Marcus Edwards along with Sunderland before Burnley managed to get his signature.
“Burnley hold an obligation to buy Edwards permanently if they return to the Premier League. Currently, Leeds United are at the top of the league, while Burnley are in the play-offs. Marcus Edwards has been in scintillating form for Burnley, so it will be interesting to see.
“I cannot see Leeds United failing to get back to the Premier League given the position that they are in. The 26-year-old was open to joining Leeds, as well as Sunderland, but I now think the only way he will move to Leeds United is if they get back to the Premier League.
“I do not see Burnley getting automatic promotion, so it will be about the play-offs. If they do go up, then Burnley have the option to sign him. It is a done deal, but if they do not, then I think he would be a good signing for Leeds United.
“Dan James has been first choice under Daniel Farke, and he has been sensational this term, registering double figures with goals and plenty of assists. Willy Gnonto has also provided much-needed competition, while Manor Solomon has also had a positive impact out wide.
“Of course, if Edwards is available, I think the priority for Leeds United, should they get promoted, would be a player to play up top, but if he becomes available, given his performances at Championship level for Burnley, I think it is one that they could return for as long as the fee is in the region that they can afford.”
Elland Road transfer may be on the cards for Marcus Edwards
Edwards would be a quality signing for the Whites due to his versatility, proven quality and potential to elevate their attack.
The 26-year-old winger has a track record of creativity and goal-scoring, with 24 goals and 26 assists in 120 appearances for Sporting.
His ability to play across the frontline, on either wing or as a No. 10, offers tactical flexibility for Farke, who could deploy him to complement or challenge players like Daniel James and Willy Gnonto and also replicate Solomon’s contributions in front of goal.
| Competition | Goals | Assists |
| Championship | 7 | 7 |
| FA Cup | 0 | 1 |
Edwards’ technical prowess suggests he can thrive in high-stakes environments—ideal for Leeds’ push to finish outside the drop zone.
His prior openness to joining Leeds indicates a willingness to embrace the club’s ambitious project.
With Solomon’s future uncertain and a need for depth in attacking options, Edwards brings Premier League-ready quality at a potentially feasible cost.