Daniel Farke stops Leeds united star from leaving in the last days of january transfer window despite record sale bid submitted

Daniel Farke stops Leeds united star from leaving in the last days of january transfer window despite record sale bid submitted

In a dramatic twist during the final days of the January 2026 transfer window, Leeds United manager Daniel Farke firmly blocked a potential blockbuster move for star midfielder Ethan Ampadu to Manchester United.

Ampadu, the 25-year-old Welsh international and Leeds captain, has been a cornerstone of Farke’s Premier League revival project since joining from Chelsea in 2023 for just £7 million. His versatility, leadership, and consistent performances—often hailed by Farke as making him “one of our most important players, if not the most important”—have drawn admiring glances from top clubs.

Reports indicate Manchester United submitted a record bid for Ampadu in the closing stages of the window, reportedly testing Leeds’ resolve with a substantial offer that could have shattered the club’s transfer receipts for a single player. The bid reflected Ampadu’s growing reputation as one of the Premier League’s elite defensive midfielders, capable of dictating play and anchoring the backline.

However, Farke, backed by the Leeds hierarchy, stood resolute. Sources close to the club emphasized that Ampadu is viewed as “a cornerstone of their project,” both on and off the pitch. Leeds have no intention of entertaining offers for their captain, especially amid their push for sustained top-flight stability. Instead, the club is preparing to open talks over a new contract, offering the player a significant pay rise to reward his outstanding form and commit him long-term beyond his current deal (which runs until 2027).

Farke’s decision underscores his vision for squad continuity. Despite interest from several Premier League sides and European clubs monitoring Ampadu’s situation, Leeds rebuffed the approach, prioritizing retention over a lucrative sale. The manager’s stance highlights his confidence in the squad’s balance and his reluctance to lose a key figure during a critical phase of the season.

Ampadu’s influence remains vital, whether deployed in midfield or defense, and his retention boosts morale at Elland Road. As the window slammed shut, Leeds emerged stronger, with Farke successfully shielding one of their prized assets from a high-profile exit. This move signals ambition: the Whites are building, not selling.