The next Klich: Leeds in ongoing talks to sign “incredible” new midfielder

Despite securing Leeds United’s Premier League status this term, question marks have been raised about the long-term future of manager Daniel Farke.

The German has undoubtedly succeeded at Elland Road, having secured promotion from the Championship, before impressing during their first season back in the top-flight.

However, the 49-year-old has spoken out about the need for investment this summer, whilst also stating that he wants to be backed if the Whites are to build on the 2025/26 campaign.

Farke could be handed a new contract to reflect his importance in Yorkshire, with a potential new three-year deal being mooted over the last couple of weeks.

The squad could also be bolstered this summer after the German’s demands, resulting in numerous players being touted with a move to Elland Road ahead of the window.

Leeds in ongoing talks to sign a new midfielder

In an attempt to bolster the club’s midfield department, a whole host of players across the globe have appeared on Leeds’ radar in recent weeks.

Sporting CP star Hidemasa Morita has been one name consistently linked with the Whites, but a deal has gone somewhat quiet over the last couple of weeks.

The Japanese international has also appeared on Aston Villa’s radar, which could see Unai Emery’s men leapfrog Farke’s side in the race to secure his signature.

Other targets are still being pursued ahead of the summer, with Philadelphia Union star Johan Lukic emerging as the latest player who could move to Elland Road.

According to Sports Boom, Leeds are in ongoing talks with the MLS outfit over the possibility of securing a move for the former Serbian U21 international.

The report also states that the player himself would be open to a move to the Premier League this summer, which could hand the Whites a boost in their pursuit.

It’s unclear how much a potential deal could cost during the upcoming window, but Farke’s men are currently leading Celta Vigo in the race for his signature at present.

Why Lukic would be Leeds’ next Mateusz Klich

Over the years, Leeds fans have been truly blessed by a plethora of top-level midfield talents, with Mateusz Klich just one player who captured the hearts of the fanbase in Yorkshire.

The Polish star spent six years at Elland Road after joining from FC Twente back in the summer of 2017 – often catching the eye with his efforts in the final third.

The 35-year-old racked up 196 appearances across all competitions, even being a regular starter during the Whites’ first two years back in the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa.

He registered 24 goals and 21 assists during such a period, before leaving to join DC United on a free transfer in January 2023 – undoubtedly departing as a cult hero in Yorkshire.

However, Farke could be about to land his own version of Klich this summer with a move for Lukic – who too has endured a tour around Europe in his career to date.

He’s already featured in Portugal and his homeland of Serbia, before plying his trade in the United States – just as Klich has done during his own career.

The Serbian, who’s been dubbed “incredible” by journalist Jose Nunez, has netted four times in the last 18 months, often producing a moment of magic – similar to that of the former Polish international.

His chance creation has also caught the eye in America over recent months, with his tally of 1.4 chances created per 90 subsequently ranking him in the top 20% of players in the MLS.

However, without the ball, Lukic has also demonstrated his quality, as seen by his impressive tally of 2.6 tackles and 5.4 defensive contributions made per 90.

Other tallies, such as 50% dribbles completed and 5.1 ball recoveries made per 90, highlight his all-round quality, which could see him emulate Klich’s success with the Whites.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Philadelphia star would cost this summer, it’s evident that he’s a player who could take his career to the next level in Yorkshire.

Concerns may be raised about his quality given his current stint in the MLS, but it’s a gamble that could have huge rewards for Farke’s side in the near future.

Should he get anywhere near the levels produced by Klich at Elland Road, it would be another piece of shrewd business and one that could allow the Whites to build on their survival this term.