A side-by-side image of Shea Charles and Zion Suzuki, and a circular inset of Leeds United manager Daniel Farke
Shea Charles, Daniel Farke, and Zion SuzukiImago

What we know and don't know about Leeds' transfer window so far: Daniel Farke's priority and Shea Charles latest

Pete Hanson

Pete Hanson is the Head of Editorial Standards for MOT Leeds News as part of the Breaking Media network. With a vast background in sports journalism and data analysis, Pete provides expertise in talent development, strategy planning, and new content strands for all things Leeds United. Based in Sheffield, Pete has previously worked for PA Media, Sporting News, and Stats Perform, after earning a Masters in Sports Journalism from Sheffield Hallam University.

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Leeds United are hoping to get a shift on with their transfer activity in the coming weeks.

The Whites finished 14th on their return to the Premier League last season, having been promoted to the top flight in the prior campaign.

Daniel Farke's side finished extremely strongly at the end of the campaign, having been mired in the relegational battle for a lot of the season.

Now, though, the focus needs to be on taking Leeds to the next level, and muscling into the conversation for the top half and, who knows, even European footbal.

To do that, you feel, Leeds will need to do some clever working in the market, and work is ongoing in that regard.

Here's what we know about Leeds' transfer window so far, and what we don't.

What we know: Daniel Farke has one obvious Leeds priority

Leeds will, obviously, be targeting improvement all across the pitch if it is available.

But there is one area that is looking in stark need of reinforcement before the season opener at Nottingham Forest on 22 August.

Leeds were already looking a little light at centre-back, and that was before Pascal Struijk was sold to Brighton in a £20million deal.

Joe Rodon and Jaka Bijol are two good options, but there are doubts about Sebastiaan Bornauw's ability to play regularly in the Premier League.

The likes of Ousmane Diomande, Lloyd Kelly, Maxime Esteve, and Natan have all been named as potential suitors this summer.

A side-by-side image of Shea Charles and Zion Suzuki, and a circular inset of Leeds United manager Daniel Farke
What Natan will add to Leeds defence as approach made for Real Betis defender

What we know: Shea Charles talks are ongoing

It is a poorly kept secret that Leeds are in the hunt for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles this summer.

An initial offer was rebuffed by the Saints, and there were reports that Leeds had gone back in with a £23million plus add-ons deal.

While the deal is not proving particularly straight-forward, Leeds are still said to be active in the deal for Charles.

Interest from elsewhere, including prominently from Crystal Palace, is making life a little more difficult for Leeds.

A table comparing defensive midfielder stats between Shea Charles and Ethan Ampadu in their 2025-26 league appearances. Stats show Ampadu coming out on top in all areas.
Ethan Ampadu came top on vital defensive midfielder stats last season.Imago/Sofascore

But, as things stand, Leeds are still very much among the leaders in the race for the Northern Ireland international's signature.

What we don't know: Do Leeds actually want to sign Zion Suzuki?

Leeds' goalkeeping department is one that is looking a little bit uncertain this summer.

Illan Meslier, as expected, has left on a free transfer, while serious offers for Lucas Perri - signed from Lyon last summer - are likely to be considered after a poor campaign last term.

Karl Darlow usurped Perri as number one, but he is out of contract and has reportedly been offered deals by Manchester United and Everton.

Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki had a wonderful World Cup with Japan, and reports in Italy say Leeds are leading the race for the 23-year-old.

But those closer to home are suggesting that, while Suzuki is a player Leeds admire, things are not particularly active over a transfer.

Right now, it very much appears a "watch this space" scenario, and things could develop.

What we don't know: Striker support and loan returns headache

Dominic Calvert-Lewin had a very strong first season at Elland Road, but there is a school of thought that he could use extra support.

Lukas Nmecha remains a support option, of course, but some would like to see an extra striker to support Calvert-Lewin.

Another slight headache for Farke to solve is what to do with Leeds' contingent of returning loan players.

Largie Ramazani, Joe Gelhardt, Jack Harrison, Mateo Joseph, Maximilian Wober, and Isaac Schmidt have all completed loan spells.

It is hard to imagine Farke finding a spot for any of those returning players, so finding new homes will be high on the priority list.

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