Better signing than Bornauw: Leeds close in on signing £6m “risk-taker”
Leeds United’s Transfer Business Heats Up Ahead of Premier League Return
Leeds United are showing serious intent in the transfer market as they prepare for life back in the Premier League following their triumphant Championship campaign. With the summer transfer window in full swing, the Whites have already completed several key signings as part of their squad overhaul under manager Daniel Farke.
So far, Leeds have brought in Jaka Bijol, Lukas Nmecha, and most recently, Sebastiaan Bornauw. The latter arrived from Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg for a reported fee in the region of £5 million, becoming the third addition to the first-team squad this summer. Bornauw’s arrival is expected to strengthen the club’s options at centre-back, as Leeds look to reinforce their defensive core ahead of a tough top-flight campaign.
A Deep Pool of Central Defenders
With Bornauw now in the mix, Farke has a variety of centre-back options at his disposal. The likes of Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk, and Ethan Ampadu—who was deployed in defence at times last season—will all be competing for starting spots, alongside new signings Bijol and Bornauw. However, the club recently lost Max Wober, who returned to the Bundesliga on loan with Werder Bremen, slightly thinning the ranks.
Nonetheless, Farke will be hoping that this reshaped group can offer enough solidity at the back to provide the foundation for Premier League survival. While the competition for places is healthy, it also casts uncertainty over the role Bornauw will play in the upcoming season.
Will Bornauw Start for Leeds?
Although Bornauw is a seasoned defender with experience in top-tier European football, there are reasons to believe he might not be a first-choice option initially. Given that Rodon and Struijk were mainstays in the Championship last season, and that Bijol arrived with a higher transfer fee—around £15 million—the Belgian may be seen as a depth option for now.
Moreover, concerns about Bornauw’s injury history may also influence his standing in the squad. The 25-year-old has struggled with fitness issues during his time in Germany with both Köln and Wolfsburg, which may give Farke pause when it comes to relying on him week in, week out.
Bornauw’s Injury Concerns
A look at Bornauw’s injury record over recent seasons shows a worrying trend of inconsistency in availability:
Season Injuries Games Missed
2024/25 4 18
2023/24 1 2
2021/22 1 2
2020/21 1 13
2019/20 1 2
2018/19 3 19
2016/17 1 12
Stats via Transfermarkt
Last season alone, Bornauw missed 18 matches across four separate injuries—a clear red flag for a team that needs dependable performers throughout the grueling Premier League campaign. As such, he may be viewed as a rotational or backup option until he proves he can maintain fitness and consistency.
Leeds Eyeing Gudmundsson as Potential Upgrade
Despite the addition of Bornauw, Leeds are reportedly on the verge of strengthening their backline even further—with a deal close to completion for Lille left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson.
According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, the Swedish international is edging closer to a move to Elland Road. Talks are ongoing between the two clubs, and there is growing optimism that an agreement can be reached in the coming days. Gudmundsson is currently valued at around £6 million, and the report indicates he could fly to England as early as Sunday to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms.
Should the deal go through, he would become Leeds’ fourth signing of the summer—and potentially the most impactful of the lot.
Why Gudmundsson Could Be a Game-Changer
While Bornauw may have been brought in for depth, Gudmundsson could walk into the starting XI. With Junior Firpo already out the door and Sam Byram’s future uncertain after his contract expired, Leeds are currently without a recognised senior left-back. That opens the door for Gudmundsson to immediately make the position his own.
The 26-year-old started 20 Ligue 1 matches for Lille last season and comes with significant experience at a high level. His profile suggests he could thrive in Daniel Farke’s possession-oriented system.
Gudmundsson’s Strengths in Numbers
A glance at his per-90 statistics from the 2024/25 Ligue 1 season paints a promising picture:
Stat Value Percentile Rank (vs Full-backs)
Pass Accuracy 82% Top 31%
Progressive Passes 4.59 Top 34%
Progressive Carries 3.58 Top 5%
Successful Take-ons 1.01 Top 30%
Non-penalty Goals 0.10 Top 20%
Crosses into Penalty Area 0.50 Top 36%
Stats via FBref
Gudmundsson has proven to be an effective ball-carrier and passer, helping drive his team forward down the left flank. His ability to progress the ball and support in the attacking third makes him a potentially valuable asset in Leeds’ system. Journalist Joe Donnohue previously described him as a “fun” player and a “risk-taker,” qualities that align well with Farke’s attacking philosophy.
A Clear Contrast in Roles
Given the current squad makeup, it’s easy to see how Gudmundsson could slot straight into the starting lineup, while Bornauw may have to work harder for his minutes. The Swedish left-back would be the only natural option in his position, giving him an immediate edge. Bornauw, on the other hand, is competing against multiple centre-backs with more recent form and fewer injury concerns.
Final Thoughts
Leeds United’s activity in the transfer market reflects both ambition and pragmatism. The arrival of Bornauw adds depth and experience to the backline, even if he’s not expected to be a starter right away. However, the potential signing of Gabriel Gudmundsson could prove even more crucial. His profile, availability, and lack of competition in his position make him an ideal candidate to start from day one.
As the Premier League season draws closer, all eyes will be on Daniel Farke to see how he integrates his new recruits—and whether this refreshed defensive unit can help the Whites cement their top-flight status once again.