With the transfer window firmly shut, Leeds United can now redirect their focus to on-field matters, as they prepare for a challenging home fixture against Hull City.
The Whites have endured a frustrating spell at Elland Road, with their last regular season home league win coming against the Tigers back in April.
However, recent developments both on and off the pitch have bolstered their confidence ahead of this encounter.
Leeds’ spirits have been lifted by a fruitful week in the transfer market, coupled with a morale-boosting victory over Sheffield Wednesday in their previous outing.
During the pre-match press conference ahead of the Hillsborough clash, manager Daniel Farke was clear in his demands, stating his desire for four new signings. True to his word, the club delivered.
Largie Ramazani was the first to arrive, signing on the eve of the Wednesday match, though he was unable to participate due to a delay in receiving international clearance.
Following closely on his heels were Manor Solomon, Ao Tanaka, and Isaac Schmidt, all of whom completed their moves to Elland Road in the closing days of the window.
Farke now faces the task of integrating these new faces into his squad, starting with the upcoming Hull City match.
While Schmidt was signed too late to be eligible for this fixture—and in any case, having played in European competition just days earlier, it’s unlikely he would have featured—there is anticipation surrounding the involvement of the other new recruits.
Ramazani, who joined from UD Almeria, has had a full week of training with his new teammates and could be in line for a debut, particularly with Dan James sidelined by a hamstring injury.
Solomon, who has also had a few days to settle in at Thorp Arch, was seen impressing on the left flank during a Leeds training session, as captured in the club’s YouTube video.
Tanaka’s involvement hinges on the timely arrival of his international clearance, though reports suggest all three new signings are set to be included in the squad.
Fitness is unlikely to be an issue for any of the trio. Ramazani featured in Almeria’s opening match of the season, Solomon took part in four of Tottenham’s pre-season friendlies, and Tanaka has played every minute of Fortuna Dusseldorf’s first three league games this season.
As for who might be handed a starting role against Hull, James’ injury could open the door for either Ramazani or Solomon.
Given his extra time on the training ground, Ramazani appears the more likely candidate to start alongside Brenden Aaronson and Wilfried Gnonto, with Solomon providing a strong option from the bench.
Tanaka, having had no time to train with the squad, is expected to feature only as a substitute if he is involved at all.
What is certain, though, is that Leeds’ bench will look considerably stronger than it did against Sheffield Wednesday just over a week ago.