Ao Tanaka’s move to Leeds United has been described as a “bargain” by those familiar with his performances before his arrival at Elland Road, The Athletic reports.
On 5 September, the outlet revealed that Tanaka, formerly of Fortuna Düsseldorf, had been on Leeds’ radar during the 2023/24 summer transfer window. However, the club opted to sign Ilia Gruev and Glen Kamara instead at the time.
The report also states that Tanaka’s transfer was secured for a fee in the region of £3 million, which, considering Kamara’s recent sale, has made the deal look even more favourable.
“Leeds originally lodged a bid with Fortuna Dusseldorf for Tanaka last summer, but opted for fellow midfielders Glen Kamara and Ilia Gruev when it was knocked back,” Nancy Froston wrote for The Athletic.
“They finally landed him a year on, after Kamara’s sale to Rennes in France, for a fee in the region of £3million ($3.9m) — seen as a bargain to those who have watched him regularly.”
Leeds United’s midfield overhaul
Although Leeds had been tracking the Japan international for some time, he could still surprise fans in West Yorkshire. This season has seen a complete overhaul of Leeds’ midfield, with Archie Gray and Kamara both departing, while Joe Rothwell and Tanaka have been brought in to bolster Daniel Farke’s squad.
Rothwell, already proven at Championship level, may serve as a mentor for Tanaka, helping him adjust to the rigours of English football. Alongside him, Leeds can also call upon Ethan Ampadu and Charlie Crew, giving Farke plenty of options in central midfield.
Tanaka, a regular starter for Japan, is expected to bring stability to Leeds’ midfield. While it’s still early days, the 25-year-old’s talent is undeniable, and if he can replicate the form he’s shown in previous seasons, he could easily become one of the club’s standout signings this summer.