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Farke must now unleash Leeds’ very own Gustavo Hamer
Leeds United Set for Crucial Championship Clash Against Sheffield United
Leeds United return to Championship action tonight as they make the short trip across Yorkshire to face Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
A victory for the Whites would extend their lead over the Blades to five points, while also creating a seven-point gap over third-placed Burnley.
Daniel Farke’s men are aiming to complete a league double over Sheffield United this season, having secured a 2-0 win at Elland Road earlier in the 2024/25 campaign.
In that October fixture, Pascal Struijk opened the scoring before Mateo Joseph sealed the win with a second goal. Though that match took place in the early part of the season, both teams have since maintained their strong form and currently stand as the division’s top two sides.
Leeds’ Missed Opportunity with Gustavo Hamer
One of Sheffield United’s standout performers, Gustavo Hamer, could have been wearing a Leeds shirt this season had things gone differently. The Whites reportedly pursued the Dutch midfielder last summer but were unable to finalize a deal.
Leeds were eager to strengthen their midfield and identified Hamer—who impressed in the Premier League with four goals and six assists for the relegated Blades—as a key target.
They initially offered £13 million for the playmaker, but with Sheffield United having paid £15 million to Coventry City in 2023, their bid was swiftly rejected.
Leeds didn’t give up easily, returning with a second proposal that included striker Joel Piroe plus an undisclosed sum. However, Sheffield United turned that down as well, unwilling to part ways with Hamer.
Ultimately, Leeds failed to bring in the dynamic midfielder, and Sheffield United have benefited greatly, as Hamer has been one of their key performers this season.
Hamer’s Impact at Sheffield United
Now 27, Hamer has been an integral part of Chris Wilder’s squad, featuring in 26 of their 29 Championship matches.
His ability to influence games both as a goal scorer and a creator has been evident, with seven goals and five assists to his name this season.
Beyond his attacking contributions, Hamer has also been a hardworking presence off the ball, averaging 1.9 tackles and interceptions per game.
His well-rounded performances have made him one of the Championship’s top midfielders, justifying why Leeds were so keen to sign him last summer.
Brenden Aaronson – Leeds’ Own Version of Hamer?
While Leeds missed out on Hamer, they may already have their own equivalent in Brenden Aaronson.
The USA international returned to Elland Road last summer following a loan spell at Union Berlin, and despite his lack of prior Championship experience, he has thrived under Farke.
Aaronson has been a key attacking threat, scoring eight goals and providing two assists. However, he has been unlucky not to have more assists, as his six ‘big chances’ created and 4.33 expected assists (xA) suggest his teammates’ finishing has let him down.
Statistically, Aaronson has outperformed Hamer in goal-scoring while also excelling in duels to regain possession.
His relentless energy and attacking quality make him a crucial asset, a sentiment echoed by former Leeds boss Jesse Marsch, who once described him as a player who “develops like a weed.”
Earning £45,000 per week, Aaronson has cemented his place in Farke’s lineup. If Leeds had succeeded in signing Hamer, the American might not have had the opportunity to shine.
Tonight’s showdown at Bramall Lane presents the perfect stage for Aaronson to prove that Leeds already have the better midfield star.
