Leeds United have begun laying the groundwork for a potential January swoop, having reportedly made initial contact to sign Hibernian midfielder Josh Mulligan, according to the Daily Mail.
With the club locked in a tense fight for Premier League survival, reinforcements are high on the agenda as Daniel Farke looks to strengthen key areas heading into the new year.
Leeds Contact Hibs Over Mulligan
Leeds are said to have reached out to Hibernian to explore the possibility of a future deal for Mulligan, who continues to attract attention with his energetic box-to-box style. The 23-year-old, hailed as “outstanding” by Hibs boss David Gray following his standout display in a 3–0 win over Falkirk, has even drawn stylistic comparisons to Aston Villa powerhouse John McGinn.
However, competition for his signature is already heating up. Nottingham Forest are thought to be showing deeper interest at this stage, though Leeds wanted to establish the timeframe and conditions under which a transfer could be completed.
Mulligan is contracted to Hibs until 2029, but the Scottish club may become increasingly receptive to offers by **2026**, making them potentially vulnerable to a future bid.
Leeds’ Survival Bid Gathers Momentum
Leeds’ recent performances against Chelsea—a crucial victory—and Liverpool, where they earned a solid draw, have injected optimism into their survival campaign. Those results have lifted the Whites just two points clear of the relegation zone, providing a template for how Farke intends to keep his side afloat in the top tier.
The club’s physical, hard-pressing identity has proven difficult for opponents to handle, and the Elland Road crowd has played a massive role in driving the team forward. While newly-promoted teams often struggle to maintain Premier League status, Leeds—and fellow promoted side Sunderland—are challenging that pattern this season.
With the January window approaching, Farke is eager to build on a strong summer of recruitment, ensuring Leeds do not stagnate during what could become a season-defining period.