Leeds United’s £15m Midfield Move Backfires? Sean Longstaff Arrival Sparks Regret as £25m Target Slips Away
Leeds United appeared thrilled with their recent capture of Sean Longstaff, especially after his impressive 45-minute debut against Manchester United in Stockholm. His performance gave fans and manager Daniel Farke early confirmation that the £15m signing could be a key player for the club’s Premier League return.
Longstaff showed his usual composure and tactical discipline, which supporters believe could make him a central figure in Leeds’ setup this season.
With Anton Stach now also in the mix, Leeds seem to be quietly assembling a well-rounded midfield. But while things look promising on paper, Longstaff’s arrival may have inadvertently disrupted plans for another major addition.
Despite admiration from Farke and fans alike, Longstaff’s presence has seemingly blocked the pathway for another transfer specifically a £25m move for Joe Willock. The versatile Newcastle United midfielder, who previously played alongside Longstaff, was considered a serious target.
In fact, Longstaff once referred to Willock as “underrated,” praising his contributions at St. James’ Park.
Tactically, Leeds are still figuring things out debating whether to stick with a 4-3-3, which worked well against Manchester United, or switch to a 4-2-3-1. Longstaff could fit into either, but his role might overlap too closely with Willock’s, limiting the rationale for signing both.
Reports from The Athletic’s David Ornstein indicate that Willock is now unlikely to join Leeds, with Newcastle boss Eddie Howe keen to retain him. This development raises an uncomfortable question: Did Leeds act too quickly in sealing the Longstaff deal at the expense of a potentially more impactful signing?
Both players share similar traits late runs into the box, energy, and attacking instincts from midfield. But when comparing their peaks at Newcastle, some might argue Willock offered more dynamism and end product. As things stand, Leeds may need to live with the possibility that their early midfield business closed the door on a more strategic addition.