Leeds United in talks to sign £17m star with one of the best left foots in Europe
Leeds United may be well stocked with quality across the pitch, but there remains a noticeable imbalance within Daniel Farke’s squad — particularly when it comes to left-footed players.
At present, Farke can only regularly rely on two left-footed options in Pascal Struijk and Gabriel Gudmundsson. When widening the scope to the entire group, that number rises only slightly, with Jack Harrison, Joel Piroe and Ilia Gruev the other left-footed outfield players available. For a side that places heavy emphasis on build-up play and positional balance, that lack of natural left-footers has become increasingly apparent.
As a result, Leeds are now exploring the possibility of adding another specialist to that side of the pitch, with RB Leipzig defender El Chadaille Bitshiabu emerging as a serious target. The highly-rated Frenchman has previously earned glowing praise from Marco Rose, who highlighted Bitshiabu’s exceptional ability on his stronger foot.
According to TEAMtalk, Leeds are already in discussions over a potential move for the 20-year-old, and the prospect of his arrival could place pressure on Struijk, especially given what has been said about Bitshiabu’s composure and technical quality in possession.
Speaking via RB Leipzig’s official website, Rose — a coach who was himself recently linked with Leeds amid Farke’s struggles — was effusive in his assessment of the youngster. “In my opinion, Chad has probably the best left foot of any centre-back in Europe,” Rose said. Such a weapon on the left side of a back three could significantly enhance Leeds’ ability to progress the ball, break lines and unlock deep-lying defences. Bitshiabu is widely regarded as one of the standout young defenders in Europe when it comes to playing incisive passes between the lines.
Despite that reputation, Bitshiabu has found opportunities limited in Germany. He has made just one Bundesliga start this season and only 14 appearances in total since completing a €20 million (£17 million) move from Paris Saint-Germain in July 2023. That lack of regular minutes could work in Leeds’ favour, particularly given the club’s links to the Red Bull network, and may allow Farke to secure a hugely promising addition to his defensive unit.
The interest in Bitshiabu also appears to reveal a broader strategic plan from Farke. Targeting another centre-back strongly indicates that Leeds intend to stick with their recently adopted 3-5-2 formation on a long-term basis.
With Jaka Bijol now established as a regular starter following the tactical shift, Sebastiaan Bornauw — who is attracting interest from FC Köln — stands as the only recognised backup option in central defence. If Farke is committed to maintaining this system, additional depth at centre-back becomes essential, and the pursuit of Bitshiabu fits neatly into that vision.
Leeds are also monitoring other defensive prospects, including Nantes’ highly-rated youngster Tylel Tati and Wolfsberger’s Nigerian centre-back Chibuike Nwaiwu, underlining the club’s intent to strengthen in that area.
All signs, then, point towards Leeds embracing the 3-5-2 setup as their identity moving forward. After going four Premier League matches unbeaten using the system, Farke appears increasingly convinced — and the club’s transfer activity suggests this tactical evolution at Elland Road is here to stay.