NafisaBack in the summer of 2020, Daniel Farke was assembling a Norwich City squad that could earn promotion for the second time from the Championship – and the now-Leeds United manager accomplished just that.
But Farke only made it through 11 matches in the 2021-22 campaign after securing promotion for the second time as Norwich boss. The German was dismissed after suffering eight defeats in his opening 11 games, winning just once.
There are several explanations for why Farke faltered at Norwich in the Premier League. A lack of investment to bridge the gulf between the Championship and top flight, along with injuries that left Farke short on options.
But another factor was Farke’s inability to retain one of his standout midfielders from the 2019-20 promotion season. A player who started 44 of 46 Championship matches that year, as Farke’s team lifted the title.
Leeds now in best position to sign Farke’s former midfield leader:
It could be argued that the Norwich side that kicked off the Premier League season were weaker than the one that had just secured the Championship crown. That was because Tottenham decided to retain Oliver Skipp.
He had just impressed at Norwich, proving pivotal in the middle of the park. But that form persuaded Spurs to hold onto him and Norwich paid the price. After Farke took over at Leeds, Phil Hay noted Farke would be eager to sign Skipp.
In fact, Farke called Skipp the “perfect signing” during his loan stint at Norwich. A switch to Leeds has never materialised and since Farke’s interest in him at Elland Road, Skipp moved to Leicester for £25m in 2024.
With Leicester relegated, Leeds promoted, and The Whites needing a touch of bite in midfield, Farke is surely keeping tabs on the England U21 international. Skipp has mainly featured as a rotation option at Leicester.
Why Oliver Skipp should be near the top of Farke’s transfer priorities:
Leeds are in need of power in midfield. Ao Tanaka has been tipped to thrive in the Premier League, but some at the club are unsure about Tanaka’s physical attributes in the top division and Skipp could address that concern.
Farke trusts him, Farke rates him, Farke is looking for a player of his profile. Skipp would likely be attracted by a move not only due to Leicester’s drop and Leeds’ rise – but because of his connection with Farke.
Arguably, the most impressive spell of his career came under Farke. Having cost Leicester £25m a year ago and playing only a backup role in a relegated squad, Skipp might now be available for a reduced price.
If Farke is drawing up a list of midfield targets to present to Adam Underwood, Alex Davies and The 49ers, then Skipp must surely rank high on it. He could be the unheralded, industrious signing that Leeds are missing.
Nafisa
