7 Blockbuster Signings Leeds United’s 49ers Are Targeting For A January 2026 Premier League Push
The January 2026 transfer window is set to be the most critical in recent memory for Leeds United, with the club's American ownership group, the 49ers Enterprises, preparing to back manager Daniel Farke with significant funds to solidify their Premier League status. Following their promotion back to the top flight in the summer of 2025, the focus has shifted entirely to acquiring elite-level talent that can immediately impact the starting XI and ensure the team avoids a relegation battle.
As of December 21, 2025, the rumour mill around Elland Road is spinning furiously, linking the club with ambitious moves for established European stars and highly-rated international prospects. The club’s strategy appears laser-focused on addressing the need for creativity in midfield and a reliable goal-scoring threat up front, a clear indication that the 49ers are not content with simply surviving; they aim to thrive in the Premier League. This deep dive uncovers the top targets and the crucial contract decisions facing the club.
The 49ers' Ambitious Target List: Midfield Maestros and Goalscorers
The biggest headlines surrounding Leeds United’s transfer news are the audacious links to high-profile midfielders who can dictate the tempo and provide a creative spark that has been missing. The club is clearly aiming for players with Champions League experience and proven quality in top European leagues.
1. Piotr Zielinski: The Complete Midfield Target
One name that has consistently surfaced as a long-term target for Leeds United is Polish international Piotr Zielinski. Described by former manager Carlo Ancelotti as a 'complete midfielder,' Zielinski is reportedly on high alert for a potential deal in 2026, with the club having tracked him since the summer transfer window. His ability to play centrally, as an attacking midfielder, or out wide makes him an incredibly versatile and appealing option for Daniel Farke’s system. Securing a player of Zielinski's calibre from a major European club like Inter would be a massive statement of intent from the 49ers ownership.
2. Lorenzo Pellegrini: The Roma Attacker
Adding to the list of elite Italian-based targets, reports suggest that Leeds United is interested in signing Roma attacker Lorenzo Pellegrini in the January transfer window. Pellegrini, an Italian international, is known for his technical quality, vision, and ability to score goals from midfield. He is a player who "ticks a lot of boxes" for the club, indicating that the scouting department has identified him as an ideal fit for the Premier League campaign. The pursuit of both Zielinski and Pellegrini underscores the club’s priority: injecting world-class creativity into the heart of the team.
3. Ayase Ueda: The International Striker Hunt
The hunt for a reliable striker is paramount, and sources indicate that Leeds United is being backed to push for the signing of Japanese international striker Ayase Ueda in 2026. The club's American ownership is reportedly keen to "make a dart" for the player, with the chances of a January move to Elland Road being rated highly. Ueda represents a younger, high-potential signing who can offer a different dimension to the forward line, providing a dynamic option alongside existing attackers.
The Depth Chart Assessment: Six More Potential Arrivals
Beyond the primary targets, Daniel Farke and the sporting director are meticulously assessing several other players to bolster the squad's depth and provide cover in key positions, particularly in the wide attacking areas. The need for creativity is a recurring theme, leading to links with several wingers and versatile forwards.
- 4. Harry Wilson (Fulham): A known Premier League commodity with a dangerous left foot, Wilson would provide immediate quality and set-piece expertise.
- 5. Ilias Akhomach (Villarreal): A younger target from La Liga, Akhomach offers pace and dribbling ability, representing a long-term investment.
- 6. Adama Traore (Free Agent/Short-Term Deal): The powerful winger, potentially available on a free transfer, could offer a high-impact, short-term solution to add explosive pace to the attack.
- 7. Solly March (Brighton & Hove Albion): A consistent performer in the Premier League, March's versatility and work rate make him an attractive, reliable option for the flanks.
- Bertrand Traore (Sunderland): Another experienced wide player, Traore could offer valuable Premier League know-how and depth.
- Krepin Diatta (AS Monaco): A dynamic winger from Ligue 1, Diatta would be an exciting addition, providing flair and directness in the final third.
These potential signings highlight a two-pronged strategy: securing proven quality with the likes of Zielinski and Pellegrini, while also adding high-potential or experienced domestic options to ensure the squad is robust enough for the gruelling Premier League schedule. The emphasis on wide players and attacking midfielders signals a clear intent to play a more expansive, attacking brand of football.
Contract Decisions and Loan Returns: The Outgoings and Returns Impacting Farke’s Squad
The January window is not just about who comes in; it's also about managing the existing squad, making crucial contract decisions, and integrating returning loan players. The 2025/2026 season has already seen significant movement, and more is expected.
The Loan Army Returns: Jack Harrison and Rasmus Kristensen
Two major figures who spent time away from Elland Road are now back in the fold for the 2025/2026 campaign. Winger Jack Harrison has returned from his loan spell at Everton, while right-back Rasmus Kristensen is back after his time with Eintracht Frankfurt. Their integration is essentially like two new signings, adding Premier League experience and depth to their respective positions. Their performance in the first half of the season will heavily influence whether the club pursues new players in their roles.
Key Contract Decisions Looming
The club has several important contract situations to resolve, with four players having deals that expire in 2026. One of the most notable is centre-back Maximilian Wöber, whose contract is set to expire on June 30, 2026. Decisions on contract renewals for key players like Wöber, Sam Byram, and Junior Firpo, who are currently in discussions, will shape the defensive foundation of the team for years to come. Manager Daniel Farke will need to decide whether to cash in on these assets in January or risk losing them for free in the summer.
Confirmed Departures
The club has already confirmed several departures that have freed up wages and squad space. Josuha Guilavogui departed upon the expiry of his contract. Additionally, loan players Joe Rothwell and Manor Solomon have returned to their parent clubs. These movements create the necessary room for the high-calibre signings the 49ers are targeting.
In summary, the next few weeks will be pivotal for Leeds United. The ambitious pursuit of players like Piotr Zielinski and Lorenzo Pellegrini, alongside the push for a dynamic striker like Ayase Ueda, signals a clear intent from the 49ers ownership to make a significant impact in the Premier League. The January 2026 transfer window is shaping up to be a defining moment in the club's modern history, moving beyond survival mode and into the realm of sustained top-flight competition.
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