Leeds Fans Feast on Play-Off Drama While Securing Their Own Premier League Return
Last season’s agony in the Championship play-off final feels like a distant memory for Leeds United supporters, who can now watch Sunderland and Sheffield United battle it out without any stakes for their own top-flight status. Daniel Farke’s men wrapped up the title on the final day, ensuring automatic promotion and freeing them from the nervy play-off grind.
With their place in next season’s Premier League already booked, Leeds fans will be tuning into Saturday’s Wembley showdown with relaxed curiosity. Yet behind the scenes, Farke is likely watching on with a keen eye—both sides feature youngsters and proven performers who have been linked with a summer switch to Elland Road.
Whether the Black Cats or the Blades lose out, there’s a chance certain stars could end up packing their bags north. I wouldn’t be surprised if Leeds move quickly to snap up talent from the defeated side, strengthening Farke’s squad for another tough campaign in England’s elite division.
Wilson Isidor: Sunderland’s Loan Gem Turned Transfer Target
Wilson Isidor has delivered flashes of brilliance since joining Sunderland on loan from Zenit, netting 13 times in 45 Championship appearances.
The French forward’s permanent move in January for around £5 million only heightened the speculation linking him to a bigger club. Leeds United have been credited with interest, though Isidor’s form has dipped; he’s found the net just once in his last 15 outings since February.
Still, the 23-year-old possesses the physicality and movement that could complement Farke’s high-octane attack. If Sunderland fail at Wembley, Isidor may become one of the hottest commodities of the summer, and I reckon Leeds would be wise to reignite their pursuit before other Premier League suitors swoop in.
Gustavo Hamer: The Midfield Maestro Sheffield United Can’t Hold Onto
On the Sheffield United side, Dutch midfield dynamo Gustavo Hamer has enjoyed another top-tier Championship season, contributing 10 goals and seven assists in 43 league matches.
Linked with Leeds for months, he’s also on Everton’s radar. Sheffield United value him at around £20 million, but their Premier League fate will determine if they’re forced to sell or can keep their midfield engine running.
If the Blades fall at Wembley, anticipate a scramble for the 27-year-old. Personally, I see Hamer’s blend of creativity and work rate fitting perfectly into Farke’s system—and with top-flight football assured, he might prefer the ambition and project Leeds present over a mid-table Merseyside move.
Dennis Cirkin: The Left-Back Prospect Farke Can’t Ignore
Finally, Sunderland’s left-back Dennis Cirkin has had a mixed season but remains a tantalising prospect at just 23 years old.
Under contract until 2026 at the Stadium of Light, Cirkin is on Leeds’ radar as cover and future competition at full-back. With Junior Firpo’s status still unclear, Farke needs reinforcements down that flank—especially if Leeds are to sustain their high-intensity style.
Should Sunderland stumble on the big day, Leeds would do well to pounce. Cirkin’s pace and ability to link defence with attack align with Farke’s ideals—and securing such a youngster on the cheap could prove a steal in the current inflated market.
