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3 game in 2023/25, with such a HUGE wage, earning more than Piroe and Joseph what a liability”- Farke told must now axe Leeds dud who earns as much as Piroe & Joseph
Leeds United have had a strong run at Elland Road, winning 10 of their 13 Championship matches there this season. However, their first home game of 2025 ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw, as Blackburn Rovers’ Danny Batth scored a late equalizer.
Now, it’s up to Daniel Farke to motivate his squad for a crucial 2025. With the January transfer window open, he has the chance to strengthen the team with fresh talent.
Leeds’ approach to January transfers has been conservative in the past. In January 2024, their only addition was the underwhelming loan of Connor Roberts from Burnley.
Roberts struggled to make an impact, contributing just one goal and one assist in 15 appearances before returning to Burnley, where he became a regular starter under Scott Parker.
This lack of reinforcements may have hurt Leeds’ promotion chances, as the squad became stretched, leading to a painful playoff final defeat to Southampton.
This year, however, Leeds could be more active in the market, with rumors linking them to players like James McAtee and Nico Elvedi to enhance the squad. Alongside potential signings, there could also be departures, with one forgotten figure at Elland Road likely to seek a change of scenery.
Joe Gelhardt, once a highly-touted talent at Leeds, has struggled for playing time in recent seasons.
The Liverpool-born forward was praised by Jamie Carragher in 2021, when he was making an impact in the first team. However, Gelhardt has only made three appearances under Farke this season. At 22, he may welcome the opportunity to leave Elland Road, with clubs like Wrexham reportedly showing interest.
During his best form at Leeds, Gelhardt scored six goals in both the Premier League and Championship, and he could thrive in League Two if given the chance.
More importantly, Leeds will likely want to offload Gelhardt due to his £15k-per-week wage, which is the same as first-team regulars like Joel Piroe and Mateo Joseph. While Piroe has scored nine goals this season and Joseph is set to play a key role in the promotion push, Gelhardt faces an uncertain future.
With Queens Park Rangers also said to be interested, it’s likely Gelhardt will depart during the busy January window.
