Leeds United’s Transfer Business Shines Despite Wober’s Likely Exit
Leeds United’s recruitment strategy since relegation has been nothing short of exceptional. Under Daniel Farke, the club has made shrewd signings while also generating substantial transfer revenue.
Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon, Ilia Gruev, Joel Piroe, and Jayden Bogle have all been brought in for relatively modest fees compared to their performances. However, Ao Tanaka stands out as Leeds’ most impressive acquisition.
Signed for just £3.4 million, Tanaka’s value has skyrocketed—easily worth six times that amount. Leeds, however, are unlikely to consider offers, even if they reach £20 million for the Japanese international. Meanwhile, their player sales have also been well-executed.
CEO Angus Kinnear previously stated that the club needed to offload two major names, which they did by selling Crysencio Summerville and Archie Gray. The departure of Georginio Rutter was out of their control after Brighton activated his release clause.
Max Wober’s Future at Leeds Uncertain
Leeds also had to make other sales following relegation, with eight players leaving on loan due to clauses implemented under former director Victor Orta. Four of them—Robin Koch, Marc Roca, Diego Llorente, and Luis Sinisterra—have since moved on permanently, while Jack Harrison and Rasmus Kristensen remain out on loan. Brenden Aaronson and Max Wober have returned, but Wober’s future looks increasingly uncertain.
Reports indicate a strained relationship between Wober and Farke, with the club’s owners, The 49ers, willing to let him go for just £6.5 million—£3.5 million less than the £10 million Leeds paid for him in January 2023.
Wober’s Underwhelming Stats at Leeds:
- 26 appearances
- 19 starts
- 1,812 minutes played
- 1 goal
- 4 clean sheets
- 8 wins, 7 draws, 11 losses
Farke has not forgotten Wober’s decision to leave on loan to former club Borussia Mönchengladbach following relegation. With injuries also a concern, Leeds appear ready to move on. Farke has emphasized the importance of maintaining a close-knit squad, and Wober’s exit would align with that vision.
Selling Wober Would Benefit All Parties
Even though Leeds would take a financial hit, offloading Wober makes sense. Despite his injuries, the Austrian has only made seven appearances this season and has been left on the bench 13 times in the Championship.
Leeds have already shown a willingness to sell at a loss to maintain squad harmony, as seen last summer when four players departed under similar circumstances. Ultimately, selling Wober would allow him to secure a key role elsewhere, give Leeds some transfer funds, and enable Farke to keep a positive dressing-room atmosphere.
