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There’s a problem”- Farke breaks silence on why Leeds United did not sign Cameron Archer from Southampton
Daniel Farke recently discussed Leeds United’s inactivity in the January transfer window and clarified why the club didn’t bring in a Premier League player on loan, such as Cameron Archer.
Leeds were heavily linked with Archer and even made an attempt to sign him on loan, but Southampton turned it down. Heading into deadline day, there was optimism that a deal could be reached.
However, Leeds ended the window without securing the England U21 striker, whom Charlie Cresswell had described as “deadly.” Archer remains with Southampton, a team facing potential relegation.
Leeds are set to face Coventry City on Wednesday night, with Frank Lampard’s side the opponents, and Farke elaborated on why the club didn’t make any signings or loan moves from top-flight teams.
Farke on Leeds not signing Archer
A £15m acquisition from Sheffield United last summer, Archer has netted five goals for Southampton this season, three of which came in the Carabao Cup.
Southampton have since changed their manager. Archer was Leeds’ top target as deadline day approached, especially after Joe Gelhardt’s loan move and Patrick Bamford’s ongoing injury. Farke explained the challenges in securing a loan deal at Elland Road.
“Sometimes, a loan deal is an option. But when you’re at the top of the table, it’s hard to find a player who would improve the team. You’d have to target someone from a higher level, like the Premier League, but if they’re available, there’s usually a reason,” Farke said.
“That reason could be they’re not part of the manager’s main group of 17 or 18 players. There could be quality issues, personal matters, or they might be recovering from an injury. It means they’re not in their best form or at full confidence.
So, would a player who doesn’t make it into the core group of players in the bottom half of the Premier League really strengthen Leeds? It’s a tough call.”
Farke’s reasoning is logical, but Leeds still have a gap to fill
While Farke’s explanation holds weight—highlighting the challenge of bringing in a player from a higher level who might not be in top condition—the reality is that Leeds are still lacking in the attacking department. The club now faces the challenge of needing a stroke of luck.
They’ll hope not to repeat the injuries that occurred in late September and early October, where Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev both suffered long-term injuries in consecutive matches. It’s a significant gamble.
