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The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Tuesday 8th July)

Discussion in 'Leeds United' started by ellandback, Jul 8, 2025 at 9:04 AM.

  1. ellandback

    ellandback Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    BREAKFASTDEBATE.jpg

    Good Morning. It's Tuesday 8th July, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road

    Leeds intensify pursuit of powerhouse Anton Stach

    Leeds are stepping up their bid to sign German international midfielder Anton Stach. The TSG Hoffenheim powerhouse, known for his formidable presence in the middle of the park, is drawing considerable interest from the Yorkshire club, according to German media outlet Kicker.

    Stach, an imposing 6ft4in figure, is more than just a physical presence. He's described as an athletic ball-winner with an impressive ability to cover immense ground, making him an ideal fit for the high-intensity demands of modern football. His profile suggests a player who could be instrumental in fortifying Leeds' midfield ahead of the upcoming season.

    While Leeds are at the forefront of the chase, other unnamed parties are also reportedly tracking the 26-year-old's situation. Stach is currently under contract with TSG Hoffenheim until 2027, which means an eight-figure fee will be required to secure his services. Speculation suggests this could be as much as £17 million, reflecting his value as a German international and a key player for his club.

    The potential availability of Stach stems from Hoffenheim's less-than-ideal preparations for the new season. The report indicates the club is in a "poor state," leading Stach to consider an exit. This creates a challenging dilemma for TSG. While they would naturally prefer to retain one of their standout performers from last season, their hand might be forced.

    Crucially, Hoffenheim's transfer balance is reportedly in the negative, necessitating a sale to address financial requirements. As one of their biggest assets, Stach could be the player they reluctantly offload to balance the books.

    Beyond his commanding physical attributes, Stach boasts statistics that place him among Europe's elite. Defensively, his numbers are outstanding: he ranks in the top 7% for interceptions, top 15% for blocks, and an astonishing top 1% for clearances.

    His aerial prowess is also evident, featuring in the top 12% for aerial duels won. Offensively, Stach is no slouch either, demonstrating a decent shot volume and xG (expected goals), contributing to both phases of play.

    This pursuit of Stach comes amid news that Leeds are listening to offers for their current midfielder, Ilia Gruev. The potential departure of Gruev could directly pave the way for Stach's arrival, signaling a strategic reshaping of the midfield core at Elland Road.

    Securing Anton Stach would represent a significant coup for Leeds United, adding a top-tier, versatile midfielder with a proven track record to their ranks. His blend of defensive solidity, attacking contribution, and relentless work rate could be a game-changer for the Whites as they aim for a strong campaign.

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    Leeds launch third bid for Sean Longstaff

    Recognising the need for both depth and top flight experience, Leeds are going flat-out to land Sean Longstaff from Newcastle Utd.

    The ever reliable David Ornstein has revealed that the Whites have submitted a third proposal to Newcastle said to be worth £10 million, with an additional £2 million in add-ons. While Newcastle have yet to provide a reply, Leeds' commitment to the deal is clear, though they are reportedly close to the limit of how far they are willing to go financially.

    Longstaff, a product of Newcastle's academy, brings a wealth of Premier League experience, having consistently featured for his boyhood club. His understanding of the league's demands, combined with his diligent work rate and passing ability, would provide a crucial layer of stability and leadership to Leeds' midfield. He represents a slightly different profile to Stach but is equally vital – a player who understands the nuances of the English game and can hit the ground running.

    The combined pursuit of Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff underscores Leeds determination to "beef up" their midfield. Success in the top flight often hinges on control of the midfield battle, and by targeting players with diverse skill sets – Stach's athleticism, ball-winning, and statistical dominance, alongside Longstaff's experience, solidity, and Premier League know-how – Leeds are building a robust and adaptable core in the middle of the park.

    According to Ornstein: "The newly-promoted side have submitted an offer to their Premier League counterparts worth £10million plus £2million in add-ons, which is a third proposal for the 27-year-old.
    It has yet to receive a reply from Newcastle but is close to the limit of how far Leeds will go, with other candidates on their radar if a move for Longstaff does not come to fruition."

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    Gudmundsson set to be unveiled

    Gabriel Gudmundsson is set to be unveiled as Leeds Utd's fourth summer signing later today, pending a successful medical. The arrival of the highly-rated Swedish international left-back, 26, marks another significant step in readying the Whites for life back in the top flight!

    Gudmundsson is anticipated to sign a four-year contract, with the transfer fee reportedly around £8.5 million plus add-ons. This figure is seen as great business by the 49ers, who took full advantage of his contract which has started to wind down.

    Known for his dynamic play on the left flank, Gudmundsson is a naturally left-footed player possessing strong attacking attributes. His exceptional crossing ability and blistering pace make him a formidable threat in wide areas, complemented by good stamina and powerful shots. Defensively, he's an aggressive presence, renowned for winning ground duels and making crucial interceptions.

    Should the medical proceed as expected, Gudmundsson's arrival will provide Leeds with a versatile and robust option at left-back, promising to add both attacking flair and defensive solidity to the team for the upcoming season.

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    #1
  2. ellandback

    ellandback Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    Hearing Longstaff medical booked Thursday or Friday. Interesting words from Ornstein. Very matter of fact, none of the 'it has been suggested that' or 'rumours of an offer'.
     
    #2
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  3. ristac

    ristac Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    Morning all

    Anton Sach and Longstaff would be almighty signings, I am hoping we can get them both over the line

    Longstaff would be that type of player you would score 7-8/10 week in week out and he would certainly add PL experience, Stach would be the marquee signing for me.

    Get them both over the line and you'd expect Gruev will be moved on
     
    #3
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  4. Mr Wolves-White

    Mr Wolves-White Well-Known Member

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    Morning all

    Gotta go up to Stockton on Tees for the evening for work today.

    On the Long staff thing people are going to massively complain about it. I think some of our fanbase expect us to go for a Messi esq player.
     
    #4
  5. FORZA LEEDS

    FORZA LEEDS Well-Known Member

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    Morning all,

    Stach would be an exciting signing. Longstaff not so much. Very average player imo.
     
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  6. ristac

    ristac Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    I watch Sunderland fans getting excited about signing an African player nobody has heard of for upwards of £15m and not just the one, it has been three or more I believe and then I see some Leeds fans disappointed with Longstaff

    Some of our fans need to be more realistic, some Sunderland fans could be in for a huge fall

    Average PL player - We need some of those, we are not going to get excellent ones mate. Sunderland are filling their quota with gambles, yes they might pay off, if it doesn't they're in trouble

    I agree we need to take a few chances but I am fine balancing that with a couple of Longstaff type players
     
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  7. Mr Wolves-White

    Mr Wolves-White Well-Known Member

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    Unrealistic expectations which I swear comes from the O'Leary days of signings the likes of Robbie Keane and Rio Ferdinand
     
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  8. milkyboy

    milkyboy Well-Known Member

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    I think there are some concerns over tanaka’s physicality for the PL. I think longstaff is our insurance for that. Steady, hardworking, unspectacular but proven and probably exactly what we need.

    I’ve seen nothing of Stach but everything I’ve read makes him sound like a gruev upgrade.

    We’re clearly looking to add the steel/physicality the club have identified is necessary to stay up. They look at sides who survived after promotion and there was typically a no-nonsense theme to them. Those sides who stuck to their principles got plaudits for pretty football as they went down.

    So as we morph from Barcelona to stoke over the summer… we’ll see if DF can do pulis like he did pep.
     
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  9. hemase

    hemase Well-Known Member

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    Morning all,

    At that price Longstaff would be a decent signing. Prem experience and a solid 6.5/7 out of 10 player.

    We are a couple of seasons away from the super exciting signings. We need these steady kind of players to keep us in the Prem, then we build on their foundations.
     
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  10. milkyboy

    milkyboy Well-Known Member

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    I think that’s the key, price. Solid addition, known quantity, Not breaking the bank. Not good enough for CL doesn’t mean not good enough for relegation scrap… last year on contract… not moving too far from home. There are a lot of reasons why this works for both sides.
     
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  11. ristac

    ristac Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    It's the price for me too, if he was £30m I would say let's move on, at £10m plus addons we're buying great experience and at 27 we can get some good years out of him.
     
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  12. Mr Wolves-White

    Mr Wolves-White Well-Known Member

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    Isn't there a private jet chartered from Salzburg to Leeds today?
     
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  13. Brizzlewhite

    Brizzlewhite Well-Known Member

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    Top 1% for clearances for Stach means I won't be biting my nails every time we concede a corner, doesn't it? Right?
     
    #13
    Last edited: Jul 8, 2025 at 10:49 AM
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  14. Brizzlewhite

    Brizzlewhite Well-Known Member

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    Where does this leave Aaronson? Bench, moved on?
     
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  15. ristac

    ristac Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    I wouldn't have thought Longstaff or Stach were replacements for Aaronson

    We have brought in Bijol, Bornauw and Nmecha for a total of £24m, if rumours are correct then Gudmundsson £10m, Longstaff £10m, Stach £17m, Perri £20m - Big IF's I know but the total outlay would be - £81m

    We got £6m for Kristensen, we would hope to get around the same for Meslier, I would imagine £7m for Harrison, Wober loan fee, Joffy and possibly Gruev sold, Joseph maybe, let's call it £26m in sales and a net spend around £55m

    Reports stated at the start that we had £100m to £120m some stated £150m (I doubt that myself) either way, it gives us a decent amount to splash on a striker, winger and #10- We are probably hoping to get Solomon for £12m so maybe £40m or a bit more left for the final two key positions?
     
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  16. Brizzlewhite

    Brizzlewhite Well-Known Member

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    I'm assuming he'd be kept as we'll need a bigger squad for the PL, even if its to see games out - plus versatility in how we set up home v away and whether we're chasing the game or not. I also assume our striker will come from a European league somewhere and not be currently in the PL or Champ.
     
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  17. ristac

    ristac Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    Striker seems to be the Fulham guy or we look abroad
     
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  18. ristac

    ristac Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    Plans formally submitted to expand Leeds United's Elland Road | ITV News Calendar

    Leeds United have submitted a formal planning application to expand the club's Elland Road Stadium.

    Proposals to modernise the ground and increase its capacity from 37,645 to about 53,000 have already been backed in principle by Leeds City Council.

    The club has now put forward its final plans following a public consultation.

    Chief business officer Morrie Eisenberg said: “As a club, we believe this development will provide great economic benefits to the local community and will be a catalyst for a regeneration of the area.”

    The plans would see the West and North Stands updated, along with changes to the South Stand and improvements to the general admission and hospitality facilities.

    United said it would help the club meet demand for tickets, with 26,000 supporters currently on the waiting list for a season ticket.

    Bosses said the results from the consultation questionnaire showed 98% of respondents supported the club’s proposals.

    A decision is expected within 13 weeks.
     
    #18
  19. ellandback

    ellandback Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    Muniz, though dependent on Fulham finding a replacement. Likely to set us back 40m+
     
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  20. ellandback

    ellandback Well-Known Member Forum Moderator

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    Sam Byram close to agreeing another year at Leeds. Likely to be a back-up. The move suits all parties as Byram is judged as a home grown player!
     
    #20
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