Leeds United Establishes Tough Playing Style but Faces Challenges Ahead of January Transfer Window
Leeds United has transformed into one of the Premier League’s most challenging teams to face, adopting a direct and physical style more akin to Everton’s robust approach than to a possession-based game. Currently, Daniel Farke’s squad holds the 12th position in the league, accumulating 11 points from nine matches, defined by two wins, five draws, and two losses, the most recent of which occurred at Bournemouth.
Leeds leads the league in several metrics, including duels won, interceptions, and headed clearances. Additionally, they generate more than 40 percent of their expected goals from set-pieces. This strategy follows a 14th-place finish in the previous season, though the team has struggled to secure wins lately.
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During the summer transfer window, Leeds acquired striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, winger Harry Wilson, and defender Tarik Muharemovic, all of whom bring physical presence to the team. Farke employs a 4-2-3-1 formation that encourages a bold buildup, yet most transitions often bypass the midfield and focus on a strong front-runner or an isolated outlet on the flank.
Brenden Aaronson plays a central creative role behind Calvert-Lewin, having made eight appearances—five as a substitute—and providing intense pressing, albeit without significant goal-scoring threats. On the right, Wilson has started seven games as a left-footed player who tends to cut inside, with Daniel James also contributing to the attacking options.
Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke reports that Leeds may have new opportunities to secure the permanent signing of long-term target Harvey Elliott in January. The 23-year-old Liverpool midfielder has not started a match while on loan at Valencia and recently received a red card for dissent, prompting the Spanish club to consider terminating the loan prematurely. Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola does not include him in his plans, and the club prefers a permanent transfer rather than another loan.
Elliott can operate as a number 10 or as an inverted winger. He possesses high creative capabilities and an exceptional understanding of spatial dynamics but lacks recovery speed and tends to struggle in physical confrontations and aerial duels. This presents a contrast to Leeds, who excel in those very areas. Elliott thrives when he has possession, which may not align with Farke’s demands for an intense, out-of-possession approach from his midfielders.
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Should Leeds United pursue a permanent deal for Harvey Elliott in January?
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 2: Harvey Elliott #19 of Liverpool looks on before a friendly match against Leeds United at Soldier Field on August 2, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images)
Many believe that Leeds should reassess the potential signing of Elliott. With Wilson already fulfilling the role of a left-footed player cutting in from the right and Aaronson effectively occupying the creative midfield space, adding Elliott could create congestion in a setup that Leeds has optimized. Furthermore, Elliott’s recent downturn in form over 18 months with Aston Villa and Valencia raises concerns about his rhythm and confidence, particularly given the recent disciplinary issues.
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Investing in a Premier League player at a premium price during a moment of decline poses risks for club management. The focus for winter funds should ideally center on acquiring a dynamic central midfielder or enhancing defensive depth, suitable for Farke’s physical approach, rather than chasing a playmaker who may not address existing tactical gaps. Leeds require more aggressive play and engagement in duels, which is not Elliott’s strength.
