‘Great footballer’… Daniel Farke opens door to £6m Germany international joining him at Leeds United
The summer transfer window could go one of two ways for Leeds United. Either, an exciting summer in which Leeds prepare for the Premier League, or a firesale if The Whites remain in the Championship.
The latter will probably see Daniel Farke out of a job. If the German manager fails to get Leeds into the top tier with the two squads he has been blessed with, then he has failed to do the job he was hired for.
There is even food for thought that if Farke does get Leeds up, he might be replaced. Graeme Bailey has told LeedsUnited.News that he would not be surprised if The 49ers replace Farke even if promoted.
One player that has been linked with Leeds if the club get promoted is Germany international Julian Weigl. Farke signed Weigl initially on loan from Benfica at Gladbach, while manager during 2022-23.
Daniel Farke responds when asked about signing Julian Weigl
Weigl impressed initially on loan at Gladbach, a player that came through the ranks at Dortmund and clocked up 171 senior appearances. His form convinced Gladbach to exercise the permanent £6m option.
With seven games to go in the 34-match Bundesliga season, Weigl has missed just one league outing for Gladbach. They currently sit fifth, in the mix for European qualification – and Farke remains a big fan.
Speaking to the German outlet TransferMarkt, Farke was asked if he could look to form a reunion with Weigl at Elland Road. He opened the door to a potential move but said the focus is on promotion.
“Julian is a great footballer and person. He could enrich many teams with his qualities. However, my focus at this stage of the season is entirely on our current squad and getting the best out of the team.”
What Julian Weigl said when asked about Farke reunion at Leeds
Weigl is a player that was linked with Europe’s elite when coming through the ranks at Dortmund. A technically-gifted anchoring midfielder that can play as a no.4, 6 or even an 8 – able to score goals.
Farke has used the German market to bring in new signings, the latest of which being Ao Tanaka from Dusseldorf which has proven to be an astute purchase. But Weigl has ruled out a move to Elland Road.
He said earlier this year: “When I extended my contract here (Gladbach), it was a commitment for the near future. I still have three years left on my contract, I can see what’s developing here. I find that exciting.”
However, promotion to the Premier League could hand Leeds and Farke the chance to tempt Weigl with a move to England – something he is yet to do. Certainly, Leeds will need another body in central midfield.
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