Leeds United is on the verge of signing Ao Tanaka from Fortuna Dusseldorf for €4m (£3.4m), a move that could bolster their midfield options ahead of the summer transfer window deadline. Tanaka, a central midfielder, has impressed in the 2. Bundesliga, scoring seven goals and creating six ‘big chances’ in 24 starts last season.
However, Tanaka may not be the only addition to Daniel Farke’s squad, as Leeds are also reportedly interested in signing Danny Ings from West Ham United. Ings, a proven Premier League goal-scorer, wants to play regular football and is not in the long-term plans of Julen Lopetegui, making a move to Elland Road a possibility.
The combination of Tanaka and Ings could be a dream duo for Leeds, with Tanaka’s creativity and goal-scoring ability complementing Ings’ clinical finishing. Tanaka’s mentality and quality make him a player who can make things happen at the top end of the pitch, while Ings’ consistent finishing ability makes him a reliable source of goals.
Ings’ career statistics demonstrate his ability to score goals in the Premier League, with 71 goals from 66.27 xG in his top-flight career. His experience and quality would be a valuable addition to Leeds’ squad, and his desire to play regular football makes a move to the Championship a viable option.
The signing of Tanaka and Ings would be a statement of intent from Leeds, demonstrating their ambition to compete at the top end of the Championship and potentially secure promotion to the Premier League. Farke’s squad is already strong, but the addition of these two players would give them an extra edge in their pursuit of success.
However, it remains to be seen whether Leeds can secure the signing of Ings, with his £125k-per-week salary potentially a stumbling block. Nevertheless, the interest in Ings demonstrates Leeds’ ambition and desire to sign quality players who can make a difference in their squad.
Overall, the potential signing of Tanaka and Ings is an exciting prospect for Leeds fans, and demonstrates the club’s commitment to building a strong squad capable of competing at the top end of the Championship.
