Leeds United now have two front runners in No.10 pursuit, ‘it will be one of those’
Leeds United Shift Focus to Attacking Midfield Amid Striker and Defender Talks
While the majority of recent transfer speculation around Leeds United has revolved around the pursuit of strikers and central defenders, the attacking midfield role has somewhat slipped under the radar — despite being a critical area in need of reinforcement.
Daniel Farke’s squad is clearly in the midst of a major rebuild, with significant changes expected across several key positions this summer. The signings of forward Lukas Nmecha from Wolfsburg and the imminent arrival of centre-back Jaka Bijol from Udinese — who has already undergone a medical in West Yorkshire — signal Leeds’ intent to strengthen their spine. However, as Leeds prepare for their return to the Premier League, creativity from midfield is just as crucial.
Leeds currently lack a consistent playmaker — someone capable of unlocking defences, dictating tempo, and adding a spark in the final third. Whether that comes in the form of a traditional central attacking midfielder or a wide player with flair and vision, it’s an issue the club must address.
Brenden Aaronson, though a hardworking and versatile presence, managed just two assists across the entirety of last season. For a team hoping to not just survive but thrive in the top flight, such output simply isn’t good enough.
Exclusive Update: Gus Hamer and Emiliano Buendia in Leeds’ Sights
Leeds United News has received exclusive information suggesting the club is actively considering two high-profile names to fill the creative void: Gus Hamer of Sheffield United and Emiliano Buendia of Aston Villa.
Both players have been on Leeds’ radar for several seasons. Buendia, in particular, shares a strong connection with manager Daniel Farke, having enjoyed a highly productive spell under the German’s guidance at Norwich City. That prior relationship could prove pivotal in any potential move.
Reports earlier this year suggested Leeds were preparing a £16.8 million bid for the Argentine playmaker. While there is now talk of a possible loan deal being explored, Aston Villa are believed to be holding out for closer to £20 million — a figure that reflects Buendia’s pedigree, despite his injury setbacks and limited game time.
Leeds had attempted to lure Buendia to Elland Road back in January, but the player was unwilling to drop into the Championship. Now, with Leeds back in the Premier League, the dynamic may have changed — especially if Villa’s financial position forces them to offload fringe players to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Some sources suggest a late-window deal may be more viable as pressure builds on Villa to balance the books.
Meanwhile, interest in Gus Hamer remains present, albeit less prominently reported. The former Coventry City star, who joined Sheffield United last season, may be considering a move as uncertainty clouds the Blades following Chris Wilder’s exit. With managerial changes often triggering player departures, Hamer’s future is now in limbo.
Transfer insider Graeme Bailey provided insight into Leeds’ current stance, telling Leeds United News:
> “What we’re seeing in the No.10 role is that Leeds are able to be picky. There’s no need to jump in with both feet on a Hamer or a Buendia.
They are weighing up options but I firmly believe Leeds will sign a No.10, and I also believe the front-runners are those two. It will be one of them, and we know Farke likes both.
If Villa are dealing with PSR issues, you don’t rush negotiations — you wait until the end of the window when the pressure is on.”
Why Brenden Aaronson Cannot Be the Solution
While Aaronson brings energy, tactical discipline, and positional flexibility — qualities every manager appreciates — the American international has fallen short when it comes to end product. Despite being given ample opportunities, his final pass often lacks precision, and attacks frequently lose momentum when funneled through him.
Although he can operate in several midfield roles — from a central No.10 position to wider or deeper duties — Leeds need a more incisive and technically refined presence at the heart of their attack. Simply put, someone who can turn half-chances into goalscoring opportunities.
Aaronson still has a role to play in Farke’s squad, potentially as a utility option or late-game substitute to inject pressing and pace. However, if Leeds are serious about staying competitive in the Premier League, he cannot be relied upon as the team’s main creative outlet.
What’s Next for Leeds?
With two clear targets identified and negotiations ongoing, Leeds appear to be adopting a measured approach to upgrading their creative midfield. Whether it’s the proven Premier League flair of Buendia or the combative elegance of Hamer, the club recognises the importance of adding quality to the No.10 role.
More than just depth, Leeds need someone who can change the game — who can provide the vision, the killer pass, and the kind of guile that separates mid-table mediocrity from top-flight success. The next few weeks could be crucial in shaping that future.