The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Wednesday 29th October) - Could Leeds cash-in on Bornauw in January
Good Morning. It's Wednesday 29th October, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road…
Could Leeds cash-in on Bornauw in January
Sebastiaan Bornauw’s move to Leeds United was supposed to mark a fresh start after four injury-ridden seasons at Wolfsburg, where he managed 96 appearances but never quite regained his early-career momentum. Signed for €6 million at the start of the summer transfer window, the 26-year-old Belgian defender arrived at Elland Road hoping to rebuild his reputation in England. Yet a few months into the campaign, his situation already looks bleak. Bornauw has featured in only one official match, the League Cup tie against second-tier Sheffield Wednesday; and is still waiting for his Premier League debut.
Reduced to the role of fourth-choice centre-back, Bornauw often finds himself on the bench or, worse, watching from the stands. In nine league matches so far, he has been left out of the squad on four occasions. Leeds manager Daniel Farke has explained that he cannot afford to have two central defenders among his substitutes, a decision that has further limited Bornauw’s opportunities. Unsurprisingly, rumours of frustration and disappointment have begun to circulate around the Belgian international, whose four caps for his country attest to the potential that once made him a prized young talent.
With January approaching, speculation is growing that Bornauw could seek an early exit if Leeds are willing to recoup the £5.1 million they invested in him. The club may view such a move as sensible business, particularly given the versatility of Justin and Ampadu should Leeds have a defensive injury crisis. For Bornauw, however, the need for regular football may soon outweigh the patience required to win over his new manager.
Anderlecht prepare offer for Meslier
Anderlecht are reportedly preparing a £750,000 bid for Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier as they seek to strengthen their squad ahead of the January transfer window. The Belgian giants are under growing pressure after a disappointing run of form, winning only two of their last ten matches and conceding ten goals during that spell. With only three clean sheets in the same period, questions have been raised over their defensive consistency, prompting the club to explore options between the posts.
According to Belgian outlet Voetbal Nieuws, Meslier has recently “appeared on the scene” at Anderlecht, and a move could take shape once the window opens. The report suggests that the French shot-stopper’s asking price would be low, with Leeds unlikely to stand in his way given he is now third choice behind Lucas Perri and Karl Darlow. His contract situation adds urgency for Leeds, who would prefer to cash in rather than risk losing him for free at the end of the season.