A bigger coup than Buendia: Leeds looking to sign “exceptional” £10m star
Leeds Fans Riding High After Promotion – Big Moves Ahead in the Transfer Window
Leeds United supporters are still riding the high of a triumphant Championship campaign, one that ended with their team crowned champions with an impressive 100-point haul.
The jubilation is justified, but naturally, attention is now turning to how the Whites will fare in the Premier League next season.
While nerves about top-flight survival are understandable, the summer transfer window also brings excitement. With the potential for big-name arrivals at Elland Road, fans are eagerly anticipating who might be donning the famous white shirt in the coming months.
Buendia Reunion with Farke on the Cards?
One name gaining traction is Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendia, who could be in line for a reunion with manager Daniel Farke. The pair previously enjoyed great success together at Norwich City, where Buendia flourished under Farke’s guidance.
During his time in Norfolk, the Argentine midfielder recorded an outstanding 24 goals and 41 assists in a Canaries shirt. His creative spark and technical quality lit up the Championship, and he initially impressed after making the switch to Villa Park.
However, Buendia’s progress has been derailed by injury, particularly a serious ACL tear that ruled him out of 56 matches in the 2023/24 season.
Despite these setbacks, his Premier League record still stands at a respectable 10 goals and 15 assists—evidence of the impact he could make at Leeds.
Bringing in a player once valued at £33 million, even on loan, would represent smart business and give Farke a familiar and capable playmaker to help navigate their Premier League return.
A Bigger Statement: Kalvin Phillips Could Return
Yet, while signing Buendia would be a significant coup, one move could top it: the potential return of fan favourite Kalvin Phillips.
According to The Mail on Sunday (via MOT Leeds News), Leeds are exploring the possibility of re-signing Phillips following his shoulder surgery and underwhelming spell at Manchester City. The midfielder has struggled for game time under Pep Guardiola and may be available for a cut-price fee—Transfermarkt currently values him at just £10 million, a fraction of the £45 million City paid to acquire him.
For Leeds, this would be more than just a tactical addition—it would be a symbolic return of one of their own. Phillips was a central figure during Marcelo Bielsa’s tenure and became a key player for England under Gareth Southgate thanks to his performances in a Leeds shirt.
His blend of defensive grit and progressive passing helped him stand out in the Premier League previously, and he could slot right back into a vital role in the heart of midfield.
Football scout Antonio Mango once described Phillips as “exceptional,” and there’s no doubt the 29-year-old would be determined to recapture that form if given the chance to return.
A Gamble Worth Taking?
Of course, any move for Phillips comes with risk. Expectations would be sky-high, and if he fails to deliver, the emotional weight of his return could quickly turn into pressure. But if he rediscovers his best form, bringing him back for a fraction of his original fee could prove to be a masterstroke.
Either way, Leeds United look set for an intriguing summer as they prepare for their Premier League comeback—with a mix of familiar faces and fresh firepower potentially leading the charge.
