Ao Tanaka has become Leeds United’s seventh signing of the summer. The midfielder, who joined from Fortuna Düsseldorf for £3.3m on a four-year contract, stated his primary goal is to help Leeds secure promotion to the Premier League. Despite accumulating an impressive 90 points last season, Leeds finished third and lost the Championship play-off final to Southampton.
This has led to a significant overhaul at Elland Road. Key departures include Georginio Rutter, Crysencio Summerville, Archie Gray, and Glen Kamara, while new arrivals such as Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon, and Largie Ramazani are strengthening the squad. Tanaka, a Japan international known for scoring in a surprise victory over Spain at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, is eager to contribute to the team’s success. “I am so excited and happy to be here,” he told LUTV. “I can control the game, provide assists, and score goals. My goal is to help the team reach the Premier League. I’ve heard that Leeds fans and the stadium atmosphere are amazing, so I can’t wait to experience it and win in front of our supporters.”
Leeds are also looking to finalize a deal for FC St. Gallen full-back Isaac Schmidt before the 11pm deadline. Regarding potential additional signings, manager Daniel Farke indicated that the club is actively seeking to strengthen in midfield and at full-back, while also keeping an eye on offensive options. “We’ve identified the positions we need to strengthen,” Farke said. “I hope and expect there will be further business. But until deals are confirmed and medicals are completed, I don’t comment on any player.”
