The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Thursday 3rd July) - Sunderland land yet another Leeds target
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Good Morning. It's Thursday 3rd July, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Sunderland land yet another Leeds target
West Yorkshire is simmering with discontent after a turbulent 48 hours that saw Sunderland, not once, but twice, snatch key transfer targets from under Leeds United's noses. Following the disappointment of Habib Diarra's move to the Black Cats earlier this week, Leeds fans were further incensed by news that Sunderland have agreed to a €17 million deal for highly-rated Congolese midfielder Noah Sadiki.
Manager Daniel Farke had publicly stated his desire to have the bulk of transfer business concluded by the time the team returns to training next week. While three players have arrived at Elland Road, only Jaka Bijol is widely considered to be a guaranteed first-team starter. This lack of significant strengthening, coupled with Sunderland's aggressive moves, has ignited a wave of anger amongst the Leeds faithful.
Disappointment has quickly morphed into fury as they watch a direct rival build a potentially formidable squad with ambitious signings. The capture of Sadiki represents a significant coup for Sunderland, showcasing their intent and drawing a stark contrast with Leeds' perceived inactivity in the transfer market.
Sunderland's actions speak volumes. This isn't about simply surviving; they are signaling a clear ambition to compete in the top flight. By investing heavily in young, promising players like Sadiki and potentially Đorđe Petrović, the Chelsea goalkeeper reportedly close to a £21.6 million move to the Stadium of Light, they are laying the foundation for a bright future.
Krstovic not intereted in Leeds move
Recent developments suggest the Whites could be interested in Lecce striker Nikola Krstovic, although the player's enthusiasm for a move to Elland Road appears lukewarm.
However, despite Leeds United's apparent interest in the Montenegrin international, reports from Calcio Lecce indicate that Krstovic is "not convinced" about a move to West Yorkshire. The report suggests that Leeds were willing to offer over €20m (£17m) for the forward, but Krstovic seems to be holding out for interest from an Italian club.
LeedsLive weighed in on the situation, stating, "The Whites are likely to face competition for Krstovic this summer, and that may result in a bidding war. The 25-year-old is unproven at the highest level, however, and there have to be question marks over his suitability for Premier League football."
They further cautioned against trying to force a move, adding, "Chucking money at a player to convince them is never the answer, as the Whites need players committed to the club beyond solely financial incentives."
Dan James agrees new four year deal
Dan James has committed his long-term future to the Whites, agreeing a new four-year deal that will keep him at Elland Road until the summer of 2030, emphasising both the club's belief in the winger and James's desire to continue his journey with Leeds.
The 27-year-old speedster found himself entering the final year of his previous contract, having initially joined Leeds in 2021 under Marcelo Bielsa. That move saw him arrive from Manchester United for a reported £25 million on a five-year deal, a testament to the high hopes placed upon him even then.
James's initial spell at Leeds, however, proved to be a challenging one. He endured a difficult first couple of seasons in the Premier League, struggling to consistently find his rhythm and impact games as expected. His second season saw him loaned out to Fulham by then-manager Jesse Marsch, a move designed to provide him with more regular playing time and a fresh start away from Elland Road.
It was upon his return to West Yorkshire following Leeds's relegation from the Premier League that James truly began to flourish. Under Farke, the Welshman enjoyed two phenomenal campaigns, rediscoverng the form and confidence that made him such an exciting prospect earlier in his career. His blistering pace, direct running, and improved end product became vital last term as Leeds returned to the top flight as Champions.
I predict new pre-match walk-out music
Leeds United are looking to fine-tune the electric atmosphere at Elland Road, with a particular focus on the pre-match musical running order. The club is concerned that the mandatory Premier League anthem, which must be played within 40 seconds of the two teams entering the field, could inadvertently dampen the mood around ER.
According to minutes from the club's latest Supporters Advisory Board meeting, Leeds are seeking to gauge the consensus of their loyal fanbase on a potential new sequence. The proposed change would see a different song played as the players emerge from the tunnel, followed by the Premier League anthem, before the beloved 1972 B-side track.
The clubs initiative to consult supporters underscores their understanding of Elland Road as more than just a stadium – it's a cauldron of emotion and tradition. The strongest contender for the new walk-out music has to be the Kaiser Chiefs 'I predict a riot'. I can't see Leeds fans going for anything else!!!