Leeds United now ready to seal long-term midfielder signing in January after medical
Leeds United are ready to wait until January to strengthen their midfield after the proposed signing of Cheikhou Kouyate fell through, according to GIVEMESPORT.
This comes after the Whites pulled the plug on signing Cheikhou Kouyate on a free transfer after he failed his medical, as reported by Pete O’Rourke via Football Insider on Wednesday (16 October) morning.
Long-term injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev forced the club’s hand in the transfer market, but they will not make a move for another free agent after the Kouyate fiasco.
Leeds United are taking a massive risk
Leeds United’s decision to wait until January to bolster their options in midfield is a massive risk as they are already stretched thin in the department.
Daniel Farke would have watched through his fingers as Ao Tanaka took to the field for Japan against Australia on Tuesday (15 October).
While Tanaka is set to be assessed upon his return to Thorp Arch, any fitness issues with him would leave Farke with Joe Rothwell as his only available senior central midfielder.
This is particularly concerning as Leeds prepare to host Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United at Elland Road on Friday (18 October).
The Whites, though, cannot be faulted for pulling the plug on the Kouyate deal as it would not make sense to bring in someone with existing injury concerns.
Farke will be hopeful that his team can avoid further injuries as they enter a busy period in the season.
In other Leeds United news, this forward is unlikely to complete 90 minutes against Sheffield United on Friday.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.