Leeds United’s winter transfer window is entering a crucial phase, and despite the club’s impressive position at the top of the Championship table, it seems that Daniel Farke is keeping his cards close to his chest regarding potential signings. The Whites are enjoying a solid season so far, but with the transfer deadline on 3 February fast approaching, the club has yet to make a move in the market. That said, while Farke seems satisfied with his current squad, there are a few intriguing transfer rumours that could shape Leeds’ business in the coming weeks.
- Emi Buendia – A Loan Move?
One of the more exciting names linked with a move to Elland Road is Emi Buendia, the Argentine attacking midfielder currently at Aston Villa. Buendia has found himself in the periphery at Villa Park this season, regularly coming off the bench but rarely starting. His lack of involvement in Unai Emery’s plans has led to speculation that Villa could be open to letting him leave on loan in the January window. Former Leeds goalkeeper Paul Robinson recently shared his enthusiasm for such a deal, admitting that he would love to see Buendia join Leeds United.
Robinson believes that Buendia would be a signing that would excite the fans, noting that while centre-backs might not always generate the same level of buzz, an attacking player with Buendia’s pedigree would. The 27-year-old has proven himself at the top level in the Premier League and the Championship, particularly with Norwich City, where his creativity and vision were key to their promotion. At Leeds, Buendia could provide a boost to their attacking options and offer Farke a new dimension in the final third. Robinson’s comments reflect a sentiment many Leeds fans likely share: that Buendia could be a fantastic addition to an already dynamic squad, especially if he’s available for a temporary switch.
- Daniel Svensson – Left-Back Reinforcement
In addition to Buendia, Leeds are also reportedly interested in Daniel Svensson, a left-back currently at Nordsjaelland. Svensson, who has recently made his full debut for Sweden, is seen as a potential reinforcement for Leeds’ defense. At just 22 years old, Svensson is a promising talent who can also operate in midfield, giving Farke flexibility in how he uses him. According to recent reports, the Swedish international could be available for as little as £5million, which makes him an affordable option for Leeds, especially given their position at the top of the Championship.
Svensson’s availability has caught the attention of several clubs, with RB Leipzig also reportedly keeping an eye on the defender. With Leeds potentially looking to offload Junior Firpo, who is out of contract in the summer, Svensson could be a perfect replacement, providing depth and competition at left-back. His ability to play in multiple positions also adds value, offering versatility should Farke need him in different roles. The 22-year-old’s potential to grow and improve in the Championship would make him a smart long-term investment for Leeds, and with the right offer, he could become a key figure in the squad for years to come.
- Junior Firpo – Exit Likely?
Speaking of Firpo, the Spanish left-back has been a regular subject of transfer speculation, with Real Betis reportedly keen to secure his services on a free transfer when his contract expires in the summer. Firpo has struggled with injuries this season and has seen his game time become more limited, which has raised questions about his future at Elland Road. Leeds have yet to offer him a contract extension, which has led to growing speculation that he could be on his way out in the near future.
Real Betis’ interest in Firpo comes as no surprise, as the Spanish club has long been monitoring his situation. However, Betis is also reportedly keeping tabs on Alex Moreno, a left-back currently on loan at Nottingham Forest from Aston Villa, which could complicate matters for Firpo. Despite this, if Betis moves forward with their pursuit of Firpo, Leeds may have to decide whether to cash in on him in January or risk losing him for nothing in the summer. Given Firpo’s injury history and inconsistent form since joining from Barcelona, Leeds could be willing to part ways with the 27-year-old if the right offer comes in.
- Josuha Guilavogui – Outbound or Stay?
Finally, another potential outgoing at Leeds is Josuha Guilavogui, the veteran French midfielder who was brought in on a free transfer in October to provide cover during the injury absences of Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu. With both players now back to full fitness, Guilavogui has found his opportunities limited, and reports suggest that Leeds could be open to letting him leave the club in January for more regular game time.
At 34 years old, Guilavogui has the experience and leadership that could be valuable to a Championship side, but with Gruev and Ampadu both integral to Farke’s plans, the veteran midfielder may be frustrated by his lack of involvement. If Guilavogui seeks a move to a club where he can play more regularly, Leeds would reportedly not stand in his way. Given that his contract is short-term and he was signed as emergency cover, it seems likely that Leeds would allow him to leave if the opportunity arises.
Conclusion
While Leeds United are in a strong position in the Championship, Farke and the board are not ruling out further moves in the transfer market. With the club continuing to lead the race for promotion, it’s clear that Farke is focused on maintaining squad depth and quality. Whether it’s adding attacking options like Buendia, strengthening the defense with Svensson, or managing the potential outgoings of Firpo and Guilavogui, Leeds’ transfer dealings over the next few weeks could play a crucial role in their quest for Premier League promotion.
With the deadline approaching, Leeds may still surprise fans with a few moves, but for now, Farke appears content to continue with his current squad, barring any major opportunities. The coming weeks will determine whether Leeds make a splash in the transfer market or continue their title push with what they have.