Alious
Leeds United’s busy summer recruitment drive in 2025 has started to pay dividends, helping Daniel Farke’s side climb to 16th in the Premier League and edge clear of immediate relegation danger. While survival is far from secured, the Whites are building momentum and showing clear signs of progress.
Among the notable arrivals were Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha, both snapped up on free transfers and already contributing four goals apiece. Meanwhile, Anton Stach has quickly established himself as a central figure in midfield, forming a reliable partnership with Ethan Ampadu at the heart of the team.
Despite these additions, Leeds are not done strengthening. Midfield remains a priority for Farke, with the club already looking ahead to the January window and beyond.
Leeds step up midfield pursuit
Recent reports have linked Leeds with Tromsø midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl, but attention has now turned to another emerging talent. According to Foot Mercato, Leeds are closely tracking Hibernian midfielder Josh Mulligan and are weighing up a potential move.
The chase won’t be straightforward. Premier League side Nottingham Forest are also monitoring the 23-year-old, while interest from Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga and Lille in Ligue 1 highlights his growing reputation across Europe. While no official price tag has been set, Mulligan is currently valued at around £1.5 million—an affordable option for a Premier League club.
Why Josh Mulligan fits Farke’s vision
Mulligan only joined Hibs last summer after leaving Dundee, but he has made an immediate impact in Edinburgh. In 24 appearances across all competitions, he has already registered three goals and three assists, impressing both domestically and in European fixtures.
His all-round performances have drawn high praise, with former teammate Simon Ferry famously describing him as a “Rolls-Royce” footballer—a label that reflects his composure, intelligence, and technical quality.
One of Mulligan’s biggest strengths is his versatility. While he has featured most frequently as a defensive midfielder this season, he is comfortable operating anywhere across midfield and can also cover at full-back or on the wing.
That adaptability will sound very familiar to Leeds supporters.
Echoes of Archie Gray
Farke previously benefited from the flexibility of academy graduate Archie Gray, who seamlessly shifted between midfield and right-back during his time at Elland Road. Gray’s ability to drift into central areas while starting from wide positions became a key tactical asset.
Now at Tottenham Hotspur, Gray has continued to showcase his versatility, playing across the back line and earning praise from Ange Postecoglou for how effortlessly he adjusts to different roles.
Statistically, the comparison is striking. Mulligan currently averages 11.1 forward passes and six ball recoveries per 90 minutes, closely mirroring Gray’s 2023/24 output for Leeds, where he recorded 13.8 forward passes and 4.8 recoveries per game.
A smart move for Leeds?
If Leeds were to land Mulligan, Farke could potentially recreate the tactical balance he once enjoyed with Gray—particularly in systems where full-backs tuck into midfield during possession. Mulligan’s comfort in central areas and technical assurance suggest he could thrive in a similar role.
It’s a move that could significantly enhance Leeds’ control in possession and add depth, flexibility, and intelligence to the squad. As the relegation battle intensifies, signings like this may prove decisive in shaping the club’s Premier League future.
Alious
