opinion- Leeds United prepare ‘bid’ for Ligue 1 wonderkid as Semih Kilicsoy update provided
Leeds United Eye Wilson Samake and Semih Kilicsoy as Summer Transfer Plans Take Shape
Leeds United are actively pursuing reinforcements in the summer transfer window as preparations intensify for their return to the Premier League. Following the release of the 2025/26 fixture list, Daniel Farke’s side now knows they’ll begin their top-flight campaign at home against Everton on Monday, August 18. Tough tests against Arsenal and Newcastle United will quickly follow to round out a challenging opening month for the Whites.
With the season fast approaching, Leeds have wasted no time trying to strengthen their squad. So far, the club has completed one senior signing: former Manchester City academy graduate Lukas Nmecha, who arrived on a free transfer from Wolfsburg to bolster the attacking line. The next major addition looks set to be Jaka Bijol, with the Slovenian centre-back reportedly close to finalizing a £19 million switch from Serie A side Udinese. The player has already undergone a medical in West Yorkshire.
But Farke’s rebuilding efforts are far from over. The club remains on the lookout for midfield reinforcements, with names like Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendia and Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra regularly linked. However, attention has now turned toward fresh young talent from across Europe as well.
Leeds Among Clubs Tracking Wilson Samake
According to a report from Africa Foot, Leeds are one of several clubs expressing interest in promising Malian midfielder Wilson Samake. The 21-year-old, currently on the books at Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais, is yet to feature for their senior team. However, he impressed during a loan spell with LB Châteauroux in the French third division during the 2024/25 season.
Samake also represented Mali at the prestigious Maurice Revello Tournament (formerly known as the Toulon Tournament) in France last month. His displays at the youth international level caught the eye of multiple scouts, with Leeds among the sides monitoring his progress. Sources suggest the Yorkshire outfit are preparing a bid in the region of £850,000 for the Rennes youngster, hoping to steal a march on rival suitors.
Samake fits the mold of a Daniel Farke signing: young, versatile, and brimming with untapped potential. Although he may not be ready for regular first-team minutes immediately, the club views him as a long-term investment who could develop into a key player.
Semih Kilicsoy on Leeds’ Radar
Leeds United’s scouting network is also keeping close tabs on another emerging talent—Turkish winger Semih Kilicsoy. The 19-year-old is currently making waves at Besiktas and recently completed a breakout campaign under former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Kilicsoy featured 46 times across all competitions last season, helping the Istanbul-based club secure European qualification.
Despite only registering four goals and six assists, much of Kilicsoy’s season was spent as a rotational option rather than a consistent starter. Leeds believe there is significant room for growth if he’s given regular minutes and the right development pathway. A report from Turkish outlet A Spor suggests that Leeds are seriously weighing up a formal offer, with a decision expected in the coming days.
Kilicsoy is known for his direct dribbling style, creativity in the final third, and ability to play across multiple forward positions. Signing him would align with the club’s strategy of bringing in high-upside youth who can contribute now while growing into Premier League-caliber stars.
Building for the Future
With just under two months until the season begins, Leeds United are working diligently behind the scenes to ensure the squad is both competitive in the present and sustainable for the future. The club’s recruitment has struck a balance between proven talent and exciting prospects, all under the guidance of Daniel Farke, who is entering a crucial season in charge.
Supporters eager to keep up with the club’s transfer activity can now do so through Leeds Live’s official WhatsApp community. Members will receive breaking news updates, exclusive stories, and promotional offers directly on their devices, with no risk of their personal information being shared. It’s the ideal way for fans to stay informed during what promises to be a busy and transformative summer at Elland Road.