Good Morning. It's Thursday 29th May, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road Solid negotiations in place for Hamer Solid negotiations are in place between Leeds and Sheffield United regarding a £20 million move for versatile midfielder Gustavo Hamer. Following the Blades failure to secure promotion in the play-off final, the highly-rated 27yo is expected to leave the club, with Leeds and Everton emerging as front runners for his signature, according to talkSPORT. Hamer's stellar performances in the Championship this season earned him the Championship Player of the Year award. His contributions included 10 goals and eight assists across all competitions, showcasing his creativity and attacking prowess, most recently exemplified by his assist in the play-off final. Leeds have struggled to fill the creative void in their midfield since the departure of Pablo Hernandez in 2021. Hamer's strengths lie in his ability to unlock defenses and provide killer passes, making him a potentially ideal fit for a more advanced midfield role. One option for Leeds would be to deploy Hamer in the number ten role, playing behind the new striker. This would allow him to dictate play and provide the service the team desperately needs. However, this would likely mean less game time for Brenden Aaronson, potentially leading to a sale if a suitable offer arises. Alternatively, Hamer could operate in a deeper central midfield role, where he would have more space to influence the game. However, this would require him to showcase his defensive capabilities as well. While Hamer typically plays in a central role, he has also featured on the left wing for Sheffield United this season. This versatility makes him a potential replacement for Manor Solomon, should Leeds fail in their bid to land the Israeli International. please log in to view this image Real reason 49ers replaced Kinnear and Hammond from within Elland Road journalist Beren Cross has lifted the lid on why the Leeds Utd hierarchy chose to recruit from within, as replacements for Angus Kinnear and Nick Hammond; who along with Gary Penrice will be joining the Everton hierarchy this Summer. The Athletic's Leeds correspondent sheds light on the club's rationale of appointing Robbie Evans as Managing Director and Adam Underwood as Sporting Director, pointing to a long-term succession plan driven by trust, data-driven strategies, and the value of homegrown talent. Evans' ascent began subtly in November 2023 with his appointment as chief strategy officer. His arrival, along with chief operating officer Morrie Eisenberg, both alumni of the San Francisco 49ers like chairman Paraag Marathe, signaled a shift towards a data-focused approach. As a long-trusted confidant of Marathe, Evans quickly became an influential voice in player recruitment, squad planning, and analytics. His promotion reflects Marathe's confidence in his ability to implement a data-led vision for the club's future. While Evans represents an external import aligned with Marathe's vision, Underwood’s appointment is a testament to the value placed on internal development. Having cultivated the club's academy for nearly a decade, Underwood earned the respect of both Marathe and Kinnear. His understanding of the club's culture, combined with his proven track record in developing young talent, positions him as a valuable asset in shaping the team's future. Marathe’s decision underscores a desire to streamline decision-making, focusing on a select group of trusted advisors. Underwood’s ability to navigate this process and earn his place highlights his competence and understanding of the club's needs. Crucially, manager Daniel Farke's voice will also hold significant weight, creating a collaborative environment. The promotions of Evans and Underwood represent a significant shift in Leeds United's leadership structure. Marathe clearly trusts their abilities as individuals and their capacity to execute the club's strategy. However, the upcoming summer transfer window will be a critical test. All eyes will be on Evans and Underwood as they navigate the complexities of the market and work to build a squad capable of achieving the club's ambitions. Their success, or failure, will ultimately determine the wisdom of this bold, internal promotion strategy. please log in to view this image Can Farke adapt Leeds style for Premier League survival? One of the biggest questions surrounding Leeds United's return to the top flight centre's upon whether Daniel Farke can adjust the team's style of play to ensure survival. Journalist Beren Cross highlighted this crucial point, suggesting a change is necessary for Leeds to compete effectively. The uncomfortable truth is, the possession-heavy football of the last two seasons is a luxury the Whites can no longer afford. And while the romantic in us might yearn for a continuation of that attacking spirit, the grim reality of the Premier League demands a far more pragmatic approach. Replicating a dominant possession game, dictating terms in the opposition's half, simply isn't feasible with the squad Leeds is likely to field. To even attempt it, particularly with a high defensive line, would be akin to offering themselves up as sacrificial lambs to the Premier League's predatory attacking forces. The best players in the world will ruthlessly exploit any such naivety, leaving Leeds shredded and exposed. Farke himself acknowledged the need for adaptation after promotion, emphasising physicality, resolute defending, and strength in set-piece situations, something sadly missing from the Leeds repertoire for far too long. While he paid lip service to retaining some semblance of their identity, the underlying message was clear: survival hinges on becoming a far more resilient and defensively sound unit. However, Farke's comments also hinted at a potential dilemma. He rightly pointed out the dangers of simply parking the bus and inviting relentless pressure from superior opponents. Defending deep for prolonged periods is a recipe for disaster against the creative firepower of established Premier League teams. Therefore, the challenge lies in finding a delicate balance. Farke needs to instill a defensive steeliness and tactical flexibility that allows Leeds to weather storms and capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities. But can he do it without completely sacrificing the attacking flair that once defined the club? The answer to that question will likely determine whether Leeds can carve out a sustainable future in the Premier League, or face another swift return to the Championship. The path ahead is fraught with peril, and the margin for error razor thin. A pragmatic approach is not just advisable; it's a necessity for survival, however unpalatable it may be. please log in to view this image
Great idea streamlining the backroom team. Hopefully we’ll soon get back to one man ruling everything like Orta. Or better still bring him home. I miss him
Morning all - I did read a while back the 49ers prefer a data focused approach where Hammond was more old fashioned scouting network. It is all a bit silly really, you know which players are injury prone, who runs their balls off and who scores goals and provides assists. I don't feel Hamer will be a bad signing, I don't believe he will be as great as some believe, I would much prefer Finn Azaz from Boro. Hamer has been awful when I have seen him centrally, as for wide left, give me Solomon at £15m any day over Hamer at £20m Solomon is also 25 years of age, in his prime, he'd still have value in 3-4 years time, Hamer is 28 in three weeks time, a four year contract he would be 32 at the end of it At 28 years of age, if Hamer was going to cut it in the PL another midtable Premier League team would have snapped him up by now
Sounds like a Moneyball approach to me. And if that’s the case, Solomon would be by far a better signing than Hamer.
It's not often we agree, but I would love Aziz, and we were actually linked with him today (along with 30,000 others). I'd bring Hamer in for his versatility as long as we don't have to pay the going price. I'd set a limit of £12m.
Someone pointed out earlier this week, any signings should be starters relegating the likes of possibly Gruev, Aaronson and Piroe to the bench If we get Solomon I just don’t see Hamer as a better version of Aaronson as he’s not looked good centrally Aaronson gets knocked off the ball in the physical Championship, he’ll have more time and protection in the PL. I’d prefer a better signing but I don’t believe that’s Hamer, he’s a wide left player
Hamer is a much better footballer than Azaz. I know I quote stats a fair bit but this is completely none stat related. You have to look at the teams they played in. Azaz impact was early in the season. He had arguably the championships best central midfielder in Hackney supplying him and two great outlets at that level in Doak and Latte lath. As soon as they lost those two, Boro’s goals dried up and Azaz looked lost. I think he was right place right time for a while. Decent player obviously but he just doesn’t pass the eye test for me. Hamer meantime was the creative force in the Sheffield united team. I’m not over-selling him.. whether he can be a real influence in the PL I don’t know. But I’d have more confidence in him than Azaz.
Finn Aziz 12 goals 11 assists in an average team expected assists 12.01 and 1042 successful passes, 180 crosses and 55 were called successful 88 key passes Gustavo Hamer 10 goals 8 assists in a team chasing promotion expected assists 9.52 and 1040 successful passes, 140 crosses 32 were called successful 76 key passes Both have poor dribble success, Hamer at 50% Is it easier to stand out and catch the eye in a winning team or a team not doing so well, I honestly don't know
Middlesbrough were up with us in the xg and attacking stats for most of the season. Sheffield united relied on over performance defensively. You can interpret that either way… should Sheffield united have been better going forward if Hamer was that good… or did boro’s style of play under carrick and the blunts under wilder dictate how the sides played. My view is the latter and that playing in a side like Boro, Hamer would have done better figures. Once latte lath was sold and doak was crocked, boro faded badly… Azaz had no outlet and looked bang average, i think (not sure) they moved him positionally later in the season which likely didn't help). Boro fans are divided on him, some really rate him, some think he's a flat track bully... Can't deny though that he created a stack of chances in a side that suited him. You have to credit him for that, he's clearly a good player, just not sure he's PL material. Just my view.
I don't disagree with any of that, I would prefer for us to get Solomon and leave both alone, instead go for McAteer and Weigl or Longstaff. If we can get Hamer as a different option for around £12m then great but quoted prices range from £15m to £25m so you would expect we are talking £20m It also depends on DF as maybe he sees him as a vital signing for the bigger picture, if he does we have to go for his choice otherwise what was the point the board saying they will back him. I watched Ipswich fans getting excited last season at those from the Championship who joined them, one fan predicted they were possibly three seasons away from the top 6 and I shook my head and smiled. It's going to be tricky when the last two seasons the three promoted have all went back down, attracting players when they expect a relegation dog fight will be a hard sell, that's why I am hoping we have a hidden gem or two that we can snatch from overseas
Azaz is not Premier League standard. Prolly never will be. Would be a mistake. Hamer has had a decent season in the PL and has been top 10 championship player for years. It's all about getting the right players around him.
Good afternoon all. Think I said it before but those in the recruitment team made some really good signings. Is it just me that is a little concerned that they’ve gone and is it just coincidence that Everton are also being linked with all our “targets” (admittedly we’re currently in silly season where transfer rumours go).
3 More days and we will find out alot more i guess. I like Hamer but not at 20m. £15M and maybe worth a punt. 2 years left on his contract at the blunts they paid £15-16M give them their money back. Dunno where I heard it, or if any truth in. it but, apparently they have to sell an asset before June 30th. Maybe someone can put a rubber stamp on that. But if that's true though we can play a bargaining game with them. as one of there prize assets from these 4 will have to bail ship Hamer,Vini Sousa,Ahmedhodzic,Burrows.
Imagine the devastation among the fanbase next week if we haven’t signed at least a half dozen players
I think we'll see a few going out before we get some coming in. Kerkez to Liverpool looks pretty much agreed so that would leave the Tsimikas deal pretty easy to get over the line at left back. There's going to be a goalkeeping merry go round with Newcastle after Trafford, which makes Pope available and the Brentford keeper is rumoured to be leaving for Leverkuson which means they will be in for Kelleher. Leicester keeper to Chelsea, Ramsdale leaving Southampton etc etc. We might have to wait for Meslier to leave.
But Hamer is a left attacker, if we get Solomon Hamer is a £15m+ luxury we can’t afford, play him in the middle as a 10 and he’s been awful
I'm starting to think we need to get away from this 4-2-3-1 formation and dispense with the No 10 Let's get back to the 4-1-4-1 formation used by Bielsa - no need of a No 10.
