After Archer: Leeds United also looking at another signing alongside striker pursuit

Leeds United’s Pursuit of Cameron Archer: A Striker and a Defender on the Radar

Leeds United has been actively working on strengthening their squad before the January transfer window closes on Monday night. The Whites have set their sights on signing Cameron Archer from Southampton, but the club is also exploring other options, including a defensive signing.

Daniel Farke’s side is preparing to face Cardiff City at Elland Road on Saturday, looking to extend their unbeaten run to 12 games in the Championship. However, behind the scenes, the club is working tirelessly to bolster their squad.

Leeds United’s Interest in Cameron Archer

Leeds United made their move for Cameron Archer on Thursday morning, tabling a loan offer to sign the 23-year-old striker from Southampton. However, the bid was subsequently turned down by the Saints.

Archer has been impressing with his performances for Southampton’s B team, and many believe that he has a bright future ahead of him. Leeds United is keen to sign a striker who can add goals and all-round play to their attack, and Archer fits the bill.

Farke’s Transfer Update

During his pre-match press conference, Farke was asked about the prospect of new signings before the window shuts. The Leeds United manager responded by saying that the club will only make a move if all the boxes are ticked.

“It is difficult to improve a team that is playing such a good season,” Farke said. “And it is risky to bring the wrong person in because we have such a great spirit and togetherness.”

“We will stay awake until the last hour of this window, but we will just do something when all boxes are ticked. If not, we have a really good group.”

“We need a player who has the right quality, character and who is affordable. If all those three boxes are ticked, then we’d definitely try to do something. But if not, we stick with what we’ve got.”

Leeds United’s Defensive Concerns

Leeds United is also exploring the possibility of signing a defender before the transfer window closes. Pascal Struijk returned to team training on Tuesday, but remains something of a concern after recent setbacks.

Max Wöber has had another flare-up with his troublesome knee injury that forced him into surgery earlier in the season, leaving Leeds short of options at centre-back. Ethan Ampadu has been dropping in as cover, but the club knows that it needs to bring in some extra defensive cover.

Ampadu’s presence in midfield is crucial to Leeds United’s success, and the club wants to ensure that he can remain in his preferred position. Having a reliable centre-back to partner Joe Rodon would allow Ampadu to focus on his midfield duties.

Leeds United’s Pursuit of a Defender

Sky Sports has reported that Leeds United is currently on the hunt for two signings: a striker and a defender. The club is keen to sign a centre-back who can provide cover for Struijk and Rodon, allowing Ampadu to remain in midfield.

The Whites have been linked with several defenders in recent weeks, but it remains to be seen who they will eventually sign. One thing is certain, however: Leeds United needs to bring in some extra defensive cover to ensure that they can maintain their momentum in the Championship.

Conclusion

Leeds United’s pursuit of Cameron Archer and a defender is a clear indication of the club’s ambition. The Whites are keen to strengthen their squad and ensure that they can maintain their momentum in the Championship.

Farke’s comments about only making a move if all the boxes are ticked suggest that the club is being cautious in its approach. However, with the transfer window set to close on Monday night, Leeds United knows that it needs to act quickly to bring in the players it needs.

The next few days will be crucial in determining the fate of Leeds United’s transfer targets. Will the club be able to sign Archer and a defender, or will they miss out on their top targets? Only time will tell.