This summer is huge for Leeds United in their attempts to recruit well and bridge the gap that has been created between the Championship and the Premier League.
No promoted team in each of the last two seasons has managed to survive the drop, with Daniel Farke’s side the latest to try their luck in England’s top-flight.
The Whites have previously demonstrated that it is possible, finishing ninth under Marcelo Bielsa during their previous effort after securing promotion ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.
However, the gap has arguably been widened, making such a task for Farke even harder in 2025/26, with his future already coming into question in recent weeks.
If he is to keep the side in the top-flight, he will need backing from the hierarchy, with numerous key additions needed in various areas of the pitch at Elland Road.
The latest Leeds’ pursuit of new additions this summer
Over recent weeks, Leeds have been in the market for a new talisman, even making contact with Newcastle United over a potential deal for striker Callum Wilson.
The 33-year-old’s deal is set to expire at St James’ Park this summer, with the Whites looking to take advantage and land the star, who’s registered 49 goals in 130 appearances for the Magpies.
However, he’s not the only attacker on their list during the current transfer window, with Hamburg star Davie Selke already on their list, according to ExpressSport.
The report claims that Farke’s side have already been in direct contact with the 30-year-old’s representatives after he netted 22 goals in 31 Bundesliga 2 outings this season.
It also states that his deal expires on the 30th of June, with no new contract on the horizon, leading to a battle between the Whites, RB Leipzig and West Ham United this summer.
Why Leeds’ latest target could be the next Tanaka
Midfielder Ao Tanaka has starred beyond all imagination at Leeds over the last 12 months, cementing his place within the heart of the side after his switch from Fortuna Düsseldorf.
The 26-year-old featured in 43 outings during the title-winning campaign, scoring five times and registering two assists – a superb return for a central midfielder.
The Japanese international will likely be a key member of the squad in the Premier League, looking to build on the success endured during his debut year in Yorkshire.
He was named in the EFL’s Team of the Season as a result, highlighting the excellent business conducted by the hierarchy – something which needs to be replicated this summer.
Selke could follow in his footsteps by joining Farke’s side from a German club, before making himself a key member of the squad and contributing to their success.
The striker’s stats from the 2024/25 campaign are nothing short of remarkable, certainly adding a new dimension to the club’s attack with his impressive skillset.
The Hamburg talisman, who’s been labelled a “monster” by Sky Germany’s Phillipp Hinze, finished as the top scorer in the German second tier, registering two shots on target per 90 – showcasing his threat in attacking areas.
Games played
31
Goals & assists
22
Shots on target per 90
2
Touches in opposition box
6.2
Aerials won
4.8
Aerial success rate
65%
Dribble success
47%
He’s also registered 6.2 touches per 90 in the opposition’s penalty area this season, offering Farke a fox-in-the-box type forward that he’s missed since taking the reins.
Selke has been a huge threat in the air this season, winning a staggering 4.8 aerials per 90, offering the side a needed focal point to play off, and handing other talents around him the opportunity to improve their own tallies.
Given the interest in his signature this summer, the hierarchy will have to act quickly to avoid missing out on the German’s signature, with his ability certainly offering Farke a different option in front of goal.
Should he complete the move, if he gets anywhere close to the levels produced by Tanaka, it would be a superb piece of business, especially considering he could be available on a free transfer.
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