Three ways Leeds United could set up with Julian Brandt as free transfer explored | OneFootball

Leeds United are exploring a move for Julian Brandt, who is set to be a free agent after leaving Borussia Dortmund, with at least one Champions League club also in the mix, according to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk.

The 30-year-old offers attacking quality and versatility. Here are three ways he could fit under Farke.

As a direct Brenden Aaronson replacement in a 3-4-2-1, Aaronson defended on the right but drifted centrally in possession, with Jayden Bogle advancing and Joe Rodon shuffling to right-back. Brandt excels in those tight central lanes and can unlock compact defences.

He would still need to nail the defensive brief and match Aaronson’s energy out of possession, and would be cutting inside on his weaker foot. His technique suggests he could manage it.

In a 3-5-2 free role behind two strikers, Farke also used this set-up last season, Noah Okafor or Lukas Nmecha could play alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin, opening pockets between the lines where Brandt thrives. He could drift into either half-space to link with wing-backs Bogle and Gabriel Gudmundsson, who hold width and supply crosses.

A switch to a back four when chasing a game would let Brandt operate as a classic No 10. He could combine with wingers such as Okafor and Willy Gnonto or stay central to work off Calvert-Lewin. It would likely require a top-level right-winger, with Gnonto or Daniel James not favoured by Farke, and would leave fewer numbers defensively.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk