Leeds United’s Midfield Overhaul: Inside the Double Move for Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach — And What Daniel Farke Wants Next
As the summer transfer window enters its most decisive stretch, Leeds United are quietly orchestrating one of their most ambitious squad-building projects in recent memory. After narrowly missing out on promotion last season, the club is determined to go one step further under Daniel Farke — not just to return to the Premier League, but to stay there. That vision is now being brought to life through a series of calculated and strategically significant signings.
Among the most talked-about moves are Leeds’ advanced pursuits of Sean Longstaff from Newcastle United and Anton Stach from TSG Hoffenheim. These two midfielders — both boasting considerable top-flight experience in their respective leagues — are viewed as essential components in Farke’s bid to create a Premier League-ready core at Elland Road.
The duo would become the fifth and sixth signings of the summer for Leeds, joining a growing list of arrivals as the club looks to reinforce all areas of the pitch. But what makes Longstaff and Stach so important? And why is Daniel Farke so insistent on building depth beyond just a strong starting XI?
Let’s take a deep dive.
🟡 Sean Longstaff: The Premier League Workhorse Leeds Need
Leeds United’s move for Sean Longstaff is close to completion, with a medical reportedly scheduled for tomorrow (per Graham Smyth of the Yorkshire Evening Post). The deal will cost £15 million including add-ons, which is being viewed internally as excellent value for a player who brings exactly what the current squad lacks: Premier League experience, tactical discipline, and relentless energy.
At 26, Longstaff is entering his prime and has accumulated 171 Premier League appearances for Newcastle United. He played a key role in the Magpies’ recent top-four finish and Champions League qualification, often deployed in high-intensity games under Eddie Howe. While not flashy, Longstaff is reliable, resilient, and intelligent on and off the ball.
What He Offers:
Stamina and defensive discipline: Able to press intensely for 90 minutes.
Off-ball awareness: Keeps structure and closes gaps when out of possession.
Composure under pressure: Comfortable receiving the ball in deeper areas.
Versatility: Can play in a two-man or three-man midfield.
According to Opta’s Jamie Kemp, Longstaff’s defensive recoveries and pressing metrics rank above average for his position — a crucial aspect given Farke’s desire to implement a controlled but proactive style of football.
Most importantly, he brings a mentality forged through years of top-level English football — something this Leeds squad needs more of.
🔵 Anton Stach: Bundesliga Steel and Tactical Intelligence
While Longstaff brings English grit, Anton Stach offers a blend of German precision, athleticism, and elite ball-winning ability. A product of the Bundesliga, Stach has amassed 122 appearances across spells at Mainz and Hoffenheim, earning a reputation as one of the most effective midfield destroyers in Germany.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Stach has agreed personal terms with Leeds, and the only remaining obstacle is the transfer fee. Hoffenheim are believed to be holding out for around €20 million (£17 million), while Leeds are reluctant to significantly exceed what they paid for Longstaff.
However, talks are progressing positively, and multiple reports suggest a compromise may be found soon.
Why Stach Fits the Farke System:
Elite defensive stats:
1st in Bundesliga interceptions over two seasons (120)
Top 4 in tackles (142), possession won (393), and duels won (381)
Physical dominance: Standing at 6’4”, he covers ground quickly and imposes himself in aerial duels.
Bundesliga-tested: Used to high-tempo pressing environments, making him well-suited for the Championship and Premier League transitions.
Leeds view Stach as the perfect addition to form a physically dominant, tactically flexible midfield, complementing existing players like Ethan Ampadu, Ilia Gruev, and Ao Tanaka.
The presence of Stach on Hoffenheim’s bench in their recent pre-season fixture suggests that a deal could be imminent — and his desire to play in England has reportedly helped push the move closer.
⚙️ Building the Engine Room: Why Two Midfielders Make Sense
Some supporters have questioned the logic of adding both Longstaff and Stach, especially with three senior midfielders already in the squad. But Farke and the club’s recruitment staff see it differently. Their belief is simple:
“You can’t build a Premier League team without a strong spine — and that starts in midfield.”
Last season, Leeds often faltered in big moments due to a lack of top-level nous and defensive control in the middle of the park. Adding both Longstaff and Stach solves that problem.
The Midfield Group (If Both Deals Are Done):
Ethan Ampadu – Deep-lying playmaker with defensive steel.
Anton Stach – Interceptor and duels specialist.
Sean Longstaff – Engine room and vertical presser.
Ilia Gruev – Tactical backup with great positional sense.
Ao Tanaka – Creative and mobile with good technical ability.
This group offers depth, balance, experience, and tactical variation — all essential in a 46-game Championship season and beyond.
💰 Financial Strategy: Smart Spending with Premier League Intent
The fact that Leeds are willing to spend close to £30 million combined on Longstaff and Stach speaks volumes about their commitment to long-term planning. These are not short-term loans or panic buys; they are mid-to-long-term investments in the club’s spine.
Crucially, the 49ers Enterprises ownership has made it clear they are building for more than just promotion. They want a team that can survive and grow in the Premier League, avoiding the yo-yo club trap.
If Leeds secure promotion this year, players like Longstaff and Stach won’t need replacing — they’ll be the foundation of the Premier League squad.
🔮 What Daniel Farke Wants Next
According to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Farke isn’t stopping at midfield. The manager is demanding more reinforcements across multiple positions — aiming not just to build a strong starting XI, but a full squad capable of competing every three days.
Positions Being Prioritized:
- Striker – A clinical No. 9 to replace or rotate with Joel Piroe and provide more variety in attack.
- Winger – With ongoing speculation around Summerville and Gnonto, Farke wants reinforcements out wide.
- Full-back depth – Particularly at left-back, where options remain thin.
- Centre-back – A versatile defender who can play across the back line and compete with existing starters.
Leeds have reportedly identified six more targets beyond Longstaff and Stach, meaning fans can expect an active final month of the window.
🏁 Final Thoughts: A Statement of Intent
The potential double capture of Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach signals a bold, intelligent shift in Leeds United’s transfer policy. Gone are the days of last-minute gambles and inconsistent planning. Under Daniel Farke and the 49ers’ stewardship, the club is methodically assembling a squad built to thrive in the Premier League, not just reach it.
With experience, work-rate, tactical intelligence, and character, both players are tailor-made for the system Farke is building — and together, they could provide the midfield foundation that Leeds United has been missing for years.
There’s still more work to do, and more players to come. But one thing is clear: Leeds United mean business this summer.