Leeds United Invites Free Agent Player to Training two days before their Sunderland game

Leeds United Invites Free Agent Player to Training two days before their Sunderland game

In a dramatic and unexpected move just 48 hours before their crucial Premier League clash against Sunderland, Leeds United have invited free-agent winger Douglas Costa to join first-team training at Thorp Arch. The 35-year-old Brazilian, renowned for his dazzling dribbling and explosive pace during his prime years at Bayern Munich and Juventus, has been without a club since parting ways with Sydney FC earlier this season.

Sources close to the club suggest manager Daniel Farke, facing a mounting injury crisis on the wings with Daniel James and Manor Solomon sidelined, sees Costa as a potential short-term solution. The invitation is understood to be an informal trial, allowing the coaching staff to assess the veteran’s current fitness and sharpness ahead of a possible emergency registration before Sunday’s kick-off at the Stadium of Light.

Costa, who has 31 caps for Brazil and won league titles in Ukraine, Germany, Italy and Brazil, arrived in West Yorkshire quietly on Christmas evening. He was spotted participating in light possession drills and small-sided games on Friday morning alongside the likes of Wilfried Gnonto, Brenden Aaronson and Largie Ramazani. Eyewitnesses report the former Shakhtar Donetsk star still possesses that trademark flair, beating full-backs with ease in one-on-one situations despite his age.

Fans on social media erupted with excitement at the news, with many reminiscing about the failed pursuit of Costa under Marcelo Bielsa in 2021. “If anyone can get one last magical season out of him, it’s Leeds,” one supporter posted. Others expressed caution, noting Costa’s recent lack of consistent minutes.

While unlikely to feature against high-flying Sunderland, a strong impression over the next few days could see the Brazilian signed on a deal until the end of the season, offering Farke valuable depth and experience during a demanding festive schedule. In a league where fine margins decide outcomes, Leeds’ bold gamble on proven quality could yet prove inspired.