Alious
The January transfer window presents Daniel Farke with a crucial opportunity to fine-tune his Leeds United squad as they pursue their Premier League return ambitions. The club’s transfer strategy in this period could prove pivotal to their promotion campaign.
Reports from TEAMtalk suggest Leeds are among several clubs tracking Lewis O’Brien, who’s currently making waves in Major League Soccer with Los Angeles FC.
The Forest midfielder has made a significant impact in California, featuring in 15 matches since his summer move and playing a key role in LAFC’s successful campaign that saw them top the Western Conference and secure a playoff berth.
O’Brien’s impressive performances stateside haven’t gone unnoticed, attracting attention from multiple English clubs.
The competition for his signature appears fierce, with Southampton, West Bromwich Albion (managed by his former Huddersfield boss Carlos Corberan), Sheffield United, Stoke City, and Hull City all reportedly monitoring developments.
His future at Nottingham Forest looks uncertain, with reports indicating he’s unlikely to feature in their plans once his MLS stint concludes in December.
During his previous spell in English football, O’Brien spent time with Middlesbrough under Michael Carrick’s leadership, though their playoff aspirations ultimately fell short. His dynamic, box-to-box style could potentially fill a crucial gap in Leeds’ midfield setup.
Leeds’ engine room underwent significant reinforcement during the summer with the acquisitions of Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka, who have formed an effective partnership.
However, serious knee injuries to both Ethan Ampadu and Illia Gruev have tested the squad’s depth. While Ampadu might return before year’s end, Gruev’s recovery timeline extends into 2025.
These injury setbacks prompted Leeds to secure Josuha Guilavogui as a free agent, offering versatile cover across defensive and midfield positions.
The experienced Frenchman was named among the substitutes in their recent goalless encounter at Bristol City, though he didn’t make his debut.
Alious
