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Leeds United have been in the midst of a rebuilding phase over the past few months, following a series of key player departures after their failure to gain promotion last season.
The Whites lost 1-0 to Southampton in the play-off final at Wembley, a result that led to several significant departures, making Daniel Farke’s task of guiding the club back to the Premier League even more challenging.
Key players such as Georginio Rutter, Crysencio Summerville, and Archie Gray left Elland Road, allowing the club to rake in over £100 million—a remarkable sum for a second-tier club. While losing these important figures impacted the squad, Farke has done an impressive job so far in the 2024/25 season, with Leeds sitting just three points off the top of the table.
A key factor in their recent success has been the club’s summer recruitment, with two standout signings making an immediate impact.
Leeds’ Best Summer Signings in 2024
Japanese midfielder Ao Tanaka has been a revelation in Leeds’ midfield since his arrival from German side Fortuna Düsseldorf, providing the much-needed stability following Ethan Ampadu’s absence. While Tanaka didn’t register any goals or assists in the recent victory against Oxford United, he contributed significantly in other areas. With 122 touches, 100 completed passes, and 10 recoveries, Tanaka has become a dynamic box-to-box presence, helping Farke’s side secure their ninth consecutive home win.
Another key summer addition, Jayden Bogle, arrived for £5 million from Sheffield United. The 24-year-old has filled the club’s long-standing need for a consistent right-back, but it’s his attacking contributions that have truly impressed. Bogle has scored three goals this season, outscoring key forwards like Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph.
The Leeds Player Earning More Than Tanaka & Bogle
However, not all of Farke’s squad have performed as well this season, including one player who earns more than both Tanaka and Bogle combined.
Brenden Aaronson, the American international, was brought to Leeds for £24.7 million in the summer of 2022, amid high expectations. Unfortunately, his impact has been underwhelming, with just four goals and assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.
Aaronson, who was labeled a “lightweight” by pundit Jon Newsome in 2023, spent last season on loan at Bundesliga side Union Berlin before returning to Leeds this summer. While he’s contributed six goals and two assists, his performances have been inconsistent, with many fans expressing frustration over his tendency to disappear during matches.
Currently earning £45k-per-week, Aaronson’s salary is higher than that of Tanaka (£25k) and Bogle (£30k). When factoring in his transfer fee, Aaronson has cost the club around £32 million—equating to £4.5 million per goal scored, an eye-watering sum.
It’s unlikely Leeds will recoup anywhere near the amount they spent on Aaronson, but his potential sale could provide much-needed funds to strengthen the squad and boost their promotion push.
With a potent attack already in place, as evidenced by their tally of 41 goals, Leeds could further improve in the coming weeks, potentially by moving Aaronson on to make room for fresh talent.
