NafisaLeeds United have taken a significant step in their pursuit of Germany international Julian Brandt, with fresh reports claiming the midfielder’s father and representative has visited the club’s Thorp Arch training ground as negotiations continue over a sensational move to Elland Road.
Daniel Farke is eager to add more creativity and top-level experience to his squad ahead of the new Premier League season, and Brandt has emerged as one of the club’s standout targets after becoming available on a free transfer.
According to Sky Sports, Jurgen Brandt, who represents the former Borussia Dortmund star, travelled to Leeds’ training base this week as discussions gathered pace over a possible deal.
The 30-year-old is available after leaving Borussia Dortmund following the expiration of his contract, allowing Leeds the chance to land one of Germany’s most accomplished attacking midfielders without paying a transfer fee.
However, the Whites know they face stiff competition.
Italian giants AS Roma and Juventus have both shown interest in Brandt, although reports suggest the experienced playmaker is now leaning towards a move to the Premier League.
Leeds believe they have several important advantages that could help convince him to choose Elland Road.
A switch to Yorkshire would reunite Brandt with fellow German Anton Stach, while he would also be working under compatriot Daniel Farke, who is leading Leeds’ ambitious rebuild following their Premier League survival.
Those familiar connections could prove crucial as Leeds attempt to sell their long-term project to one of the most technically gifted free agents currently available.
Brandt’s versatility is another reason why Farke is pushing hard for the deal.
Although naturally an attacking midfielder, he is equally comfortable operating on either wing, giving Leeds multiple tactical options while adding creativity in the final third.
His ability to carry the ball through midfield, unlock compact defences and create chances would address one of the biggest weaknesses Leeds identified from last season.
The German international also brings an outstanding level of experience.
After making his name at Bayer Leverkusen, where he registered 42 goals and 52 assists in 215 appearances, Brandt moved to Borussia Dortmund in 2019 and enjoyed another hugely productive spell.
Across seven seasons with Dortmund, he contributed 57 goals and 70 assists, while also becoming a regular for the German national team with 48 senior international appearances.
For Leeds, signing a player of that calibre without paying a transfer fee would represent one of the club’s biggest statements in recent years.
The biggest obstacle remains his salary and competition from clubs able to offer European football.
Nevertheless, the reported visit by Brandt’s father has fuelled optimism that Leeds are genuine contenders rather than simply monitoring the situation.
If Farke can convince the Germany international that he will play a leading role in the club’s Premier League project, Elland Road could soon welcome one of the most high-profile free-agent signings of the summer.
Nafisa
