“He was a joke”- Andrew Omobamidele says £17m Leeds target is the most skilful player he’s ever worked with, ‘he was a joke’
Leeds United Continue Transfer Push with Interest in Premier League Playmaker
Leeds United are making moves in the summer transfer market as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
The club has already secured two new signings—forward Lukas Nmecha on a free transfer from Wolfsburg and defender Jaka Bijol from Udinese.
With more additions expected in the coming weeks, Leeds remain active in the market, particularly in search of creative attacking talent to elevate their squad to top-flight standards.
One target catching attention is Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendia, who has been described as the most skilful player Republic of Ireland defender Andrew Omobamidele has ever played with.
Speaking in a recent TikTok video for the Irish national team, Omobamidele praised Buendia, recalling their time together at Norwich City.
“I’ve played with some very good players so far, but I’d probably say Emi Buendia,” said Omobamidele. “Technically, when he was at Norwich with me, he was a joke. In training, some of the things he did—I’d never seen before.”
Buendia, currently out of favour at Aston Villa, has emerged as a serious target for Leeds. According to TBR Football‘s Graeme Bailey, the club has already opened discussions over a potential deal.
Leeds have also reportedly inquired about Galatasaray’s Gabriel Sara and Sheffield United midfielder Gustavo Hamer, as they look to bring in a new No. 10.
Buendia spent last season on loan at Bayer Leverkusen, who reportedly had a £17 million option to buy. However, no permanent move materialized.
The Argentine attacking midfielder previously flourished under current Leeds boss Daniel Farke at Norwich City, making 121 appearances and contributing 24 goals and 41 assists. Farke was full of praise when Buendia departed for Aston Villa in a £33 million move.
“A fantastic player,” Farke said at the time. “There are moments when you have to respect the player’s desire to take the next step.
Emi was instrumental in two Championship titles and in what many consider Norwich’s best-ever Premier League campaign. His pressing, creativity, and overall work rate were exceptional.”
Now, with Buendia potentially available again, Leeds could look to reunite the Argentine with Farke as they build for the Premier League challenge ahead.
