Why Julian Brandt’s father was at Thorp Arch - and what it really means for Leeds United’s transfer hopes
Julian Brandt's father visiting Leeds United may signal renewed hope of a transfer.
The Whites have made their approach for the 48-cap German international, who is a free agent.
The 30-year-old left Borussia Dortmund when his contract expired, and could be a bargain addition for Daniel Farke's side.
MOT Leeds News have constantly provided Elland Road supporters with updates on Brandt's situation.
The most promising one has emerged on Friday, as he was spotted at Thorp Arch, the Peacocks' training base.
However, it may not be all that it seems for the LS11 outfit.
What is the latest on Julian Brandt to Leeds United?
Brandt has attracted interest from several clubs, including Italian clubs Juventus and Roma.
However, the Whites are clearly not giving up on his signature, as Graham Smyth has reported that they have held discussions with his agent, his father, Jurgen Brandt.
He stated that he also did that with Real Betis, who did not end up signing the two time Bundesliga Player of the Month.
Therefore, it means that the Yorkshire are still not guaranteed to bring Brandt in.
Why are Leeds pushing for Brandt's signature?
Brandt would be a gamechanger for Farke's side, as he has plenty of experience in a top division and the Champions League.
The German has played 383 Bundesliga games and 82 times in Europe's top competition, reaching the final in 2024, but ultimately losing to Real Madrid.
Former Wolfsburg U19 coach, Dirk Kunert, once labelled his attacking instincts as "extraordinary", in an interview with ESPN.
That was evident from his stats with Dortmund last season, as he notched seven goals and four assists, per data from Fotmob.
His underlying numbers make for impressive reading, as he averaged 2.07 shots and 1.68 chances created on a per 90 basis in the top-flight of his home nation.
He was not the main man with the Black and Yellow though, and he likely would be for the Whites, so those stats would surely increase even more.
It is a no-brainer for Farke and Co to push for a deal, but while they have met with his father, that does not make a transfer imminent as we have seen with previous interest.