Leeds can sign the French Marcus Rashford as news travels across the Channel
Leeds United Could Secure Their Own Marcus Rashford in Ambitious Summer Move
Leeds United may be on the verge of landing a player with attributes comparable to Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of a challenging return to the Premier League.
Despite sealing a long-awaited promotion and preparing for top-flight football once again, Leeds’ transfer activity in the attacking department has been relatively slow. So far, German forward Lukas Nmecha has arrived on a free transfer from Wolfsburg, but fans and management alike are becoming increasingly frustrated by the lack of further reinforcements in forward areas.
With a new Premier League campaign looming, Daniel Farke is in urgent need of additional firepower to help his side compete at the highest level. The departure of one of last season’s key attacking talents—Israel international and prolific goal scorer—has left a significant gap in the squad. Replacing such an influential figure is no easy task, but the club appears to be eyeing a player capable of filling those boots—and then some.
That’s where Franck Honorat comes into the equation.
According to reputable French outlet Foot Mercato (report dated 6 July), Leeds United are showing serious interest in signing the Stade Brestois star, with competition coming from Ligue 1 side OGC Nice and Spanish outfit Valencia. Despite the fierce interest from across Europe, the Yorkshire side may just have the pulling power to land the talented winger.
At 28 years old, Honorat is entering the prime of his career and has been one of Ligue 1’s most consistent performers in recent seasons. His attacking output, flair, and versatility make him a very attractive prospect—especially for a newly-promoted team looking to add quality and experience to their frontline.
What makes this potential deal even more exciting for Leeds supporters is that Honorat has drawn comparisons to none other than Marcus Rashford. The England international, known for his blistering pace, creativity, and knack for scoring important goals, has long been regarded as one of the Premier League’s most explosive attackers. Bringing in a player who statistically mirrors Rashford’s style and impact could be a massive statement of intent from the Elland Road hierarchy.
When comparing the two players’ recent performances, Honorat actually comes out on top in several key metrics. According to stats sourced from FBref (6 July), the Frenchman outperforms Rashford in shot-creating actions, assists, and non-penalty expected goals per 90 minutes—a testament to his direct involvement in offensive play.
Franck Honorat vs Marcus Rashford (Per 90 Stats)
Shot-Creating Actions: Honorat – 5.19 | Rashford – 3.62
Assists: Honorat – 0.44 | Rashford – 0.27
Non-Penalty Expected Goals (npxG): Honorat – 0.28 | Rashford – 0.24
Additionally, the pair post similar numbers when it comes to progressive carries and touches in the attacking third—attributes that will be crucial in Farke’s high-intensity, possession-driven system.
Given Leeds United’s focus on building a sustainable future in the Premier League under the stewardship of 49ers Enterprises chairman Paraag Marathe, a signing like Honorat could prove pivotal. Not only would he bring quality and experience to the team, but his profile also aligns with the club’s desire to establish a competitive, long-term project in England’s top division.
If Leeds can win the race for Honorat’s signature, they will have pulled off a major coup—adding a player who offers a rare combination of creative spark, end product, and positional versatility. For fans who have endured a quiet transfer window so far, this could be the boost they’ve been waiting for.