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Leeds United’s Late Transfer Flurry: A Masterstroke in the Making

Leeds United’s transfer window was a rollercoaster ride of emotions, with fans experiencing a range of feelings from disappointment to euphoria. However, the club’s late flurry of transfer activity has peaked optimism at Elland Road once again.

Just over three weeks ago, the mood at Leeds was at an all-time low. Georginio Rutter’s exit and a lack of signings had left fans feeling frustrated and concerned about the team’s prospects for the season. However, Leeds’ transfer team sprang into action, completing four new signings in the final eight days of the summer window.

The first of these signings was Largie Ramazani, who joined from UD Almeria. He was followed by Manor Solomon, Ao Tanaka, and Isaac Schmidt, all of whom have strengthened Leeds’ squad significantly.

The signing of Solomon was arguably the biggest coup of the summer, considering his pedigree and the competition Leeds faced to land him. Both Getafe and Ajax were keen on a loan deal for the 25-year-old, but it was Leeds who ultimately won the race due to his preference for staying in England.

However, it wasn’t just Solomon who Leeds had to fight to sign. According to reports, Celtic, Midtjylland, and Serie A side Como were all keen on signing Ao Tanaka, but the Japanese midfielder chose Elland Road as the next best step in his career.

Tanaka’s decision to join Leeds is a significant one, given his ambitions of playing in the Champions League. He could have opted for European football with either Celtic or Midtjylland, but instead chose to join a team that is building towards a top-flight return.

Leeds’ signing of Tanaka is a masterstroke, given the midfielder’s quality and potential. He was hailed as “incredible” by Kieran McKenna back in July, and his debut against Hull City showed exactly why. Despite only playing for four minutes, Tanaka completed 18 passes, a feat only two players have achieved since Opta began recording Championship data in 2013/14.