Leeds United focus on No 10 as Brandt talks continue, keeper search grows and Shea Charles link persists | OneFootball

Leeds United are pushing to strengthen their No 10 options, meeting free agent Julian Brandt this week and keeping dialogue open. The former Borussia Dortmund midfielder is a candidate for the role.

According to Leeds Live, talks at Thorp Park involved his agent and father, Jurgen. He is attracting interest from several clubs, with Serie A sides able to offer European football, although there are suggestions England is the likelier destination.

Brenden Aaronson is the only senior natural No 10 on the books. The 25-year-old is out of contract next year and may seek a move before it expires, and Daniel Farke appears keen to add another option in that role.

Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, 22, has also been linked with Leeds, who are viewed as among the frontrunners. They are said to be ready to walk away if progress stalls, while moving for Brandt first would underline a tilt towards experience as they aim for higher ceilings in the Premier League.

Goalkeeper is another pressing area after senior options halved this summer. Karl Darlow joined Manchester United on a free, signing a two-year deal, and Illan Meslier left for nothing to Arsenal following his release earlier in July. Lucas Perri and Alex Cairns are now the only senior keepers.

Parma's Zion Suzuki and Manchester City's James Trafford head a longer shortlist. No talks are planned yet, with the club hoping to firm up business now that the World Cup has concluded.

Source: Leeds Live