Leeds United are on the brink of losing another vital player, with reports indicating that Glen Kamara has agreed personal terms with Ligue 1 outfit Rennes. This development follows the departure of one of their key players, Archie Gray, who officially signed with Tottenham yesterday.
Gray, just 18, was a standout performer for Leeds last season and is considered one of the brightest young prospects in English football. His departure is a significant blow for the Yorkshire club, and now they are set to lose another crucial midfielder.
According to Ouest France, Glen Kamara has reached an agreement to join the French league. Kamara, who was signed from Rangers last season, quickly established himself as a key player for Leeds.
Under Daniel Farke’s management, Kamara was instrumental in Leeds’ impressive season, which saw them come tantalisingly close to promotion, only to be defeated by Southampton in the play-offs.
The Finnish midfielder made 40 appearances for Leeds in the Championship last season, contributing three assists. Known for his consistency, Kamara delivered solid performances week in and week out. Primarily a defensive midfielder, his versatility allows him to operate effectively as a central midfielder as well.
With Gray’s move to Tottenham, Leeds have already lost their only other box-to-box midfield option. The potential departure of Kamara would further deplete their midfield resources.
Currently, Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev are Leeds’ only recognised midfield options, though both are more comfortable playing just in front of the back four.
To address this potential gap, Leeds need to target reinforcements in the midfield. Here are three midfielders they should consider:
Oliver Skipp – Tottenham
Tottenham’s Oliver Skipp is an obvious candidate, especially given the existing interest. Skipp finds himself even further down the pecking order at Spurs following Gray’s arrival. Leeds attempted to include Skipp in the deal for Gray but were rebuffed. However, this does not rule out the possibility of a deal entirely.
Skipp is well-acquainted with Leeds manager Daniel Farke from their time together at Norwich City, and there is a strong mutual respect between the two. While Premier League interest could complicate matters if Skipp becomes available, Leeds will hope Farke’s influence can lure him to the Championship.
Although Skipp is not a prolific goalscorer, his partnership with Ampadu would arguably form the strongest midfield pairing in the league.
Lewis O’Brien – Nottingham Forest
A more feasible option might be Nottingham Forest’s Lewis O’Brien, who appears set for a return to the Championship this summer. O’Brien had a solid loan spell at Middlesbrough last season and is also attracting interest from Norwich and Luton Town, according to Alan Nixon.
O’Brien, 25, fits the profile of a box-to-box midfielder and has a better knack for scoring than Kamara, who is known among fans for his reluctance to shoot. Leeds have shown interest in O’Brien over the past few summers, but he has yet to make the move to Elland Road. This transfer window could finally see that change.
Gabriel Sara – Norwich City
The most ambitious target would be Norwich’s Gabriel Sara. While his signing may be a long shot due to Leeds still being in the Championship, Sara embodies exactly what Leeds need in midfield. Last season, he registered double figures for both goals and assists.
Securing Sara would likely require a hefty fee, possibly upwards of £20 million. However, with the £40 million gained from Gray’s transfer, potential profit from Kamara’s sale, and other lucrative exits like Crysencio Summerville, Leeds could have the funds for marquee replacements.
Sara’s ability to play as both a number 10 and a number 8 would address multiple needs for Leeds, effectively killing two birds with one stone. Should Leeds manage to pull off this transfer, it would be a remarkable coup for the club.
Leeds United are facing a crucial period in the transfer window. With key departures, the club must act swiftly to bolster their midfield. The potential loss of Kamara, following Gray’s exit, leaves significant gaps that need to be filled if Leeds are to mount another promotion challenge next season.