Leeds United Interested In 20-Year-Old Talented Left-Footed Centre-back: Why Will He Fit In Under Farke? | OneFootball

Reports from John Menzies and Billy Meyers suggest that Leeds United have found a specific target for the January window. The club are looking to strengthen their defensive options. So, the board sees El Chadaille Bitshiabu as a top candidate for the move.

Leeds United see El Chadaille Bitshiabu as a possible option

Interest is growing because his situation at RB Leipzig looks shaky right now. The German side have only given the young defender five games all season so far. They do not seem to have much use for him at the moment, and that opens the door for a move away. This kind of news always gets other clubs interested. Leeds are now keeping a close eye on him because they want a deal that helps their push for promotion.

Bitshiabu arrived in Germany with a big reputation after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. However, he is currently stuck on the sidelines at the Red Bull Arena. This lack of minutes is causing plenty of talk about his future. It gives Leeds a real chance to step in.

If the Whites move fast, they could take advantage of Leipzig’s willingness to let the 20-year-old centre-back leave. This would put a big, physical presence in their squad before the winter transfer window ends.

LEIPZIG, GERMANY – MAY 03: El Chadaille Bitshiabu of Leipzig looks on prior to the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and FC Bayern München at Red Bull Arena on May 03, 2025 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

The report also reveals that Leipzig won’t block the player from leaving. That makes the whole negotiation process much easier for the Premier League club. Meanwhile, they are also expected to reignite interest in Troy Parrott to resolve their crisis high up the pitch.

Tactical Fit Under Daniel Farke

Daniel Farke has stuck to his plan of having defenders build attacks from the back during this 2025/26 season. He prefers keeping the ball and passing forward rather than just hoofing it clear. Usually, the German manager likes to pair a strong header of the ball with a player who is good with the ball at their feet.

This specific setup makes Bitshiabu a really interesting option. Standing nearly two metres tall, the teenager is incredibly strong. The French defender also has a very good left foot. This helps him find passing lanes that right-footed defenders often can’t see. On the downside, his big frame can make it hard for him to turn quickly against smaller, faster attackers. Some critics also worry about him losing focus during games.

Even with those concerns, he likely fits Farke’s style. The manager requires a natural left-sided centre-back to maintain balance during the build-up phase. His talent for playing vertical passes through the lines also fits the fast-paced style Leeds use.

This is helpful when they face teams that sit deep in the Premier League. As for the transfer itself, Leeds have a great shot at signing him if they promise him regular games. The player needs to be playing senior football right now to get his career back on track. If Farke can work on the defender’s positioning, this signing could be a massive help for the final part of the season.