Ask Leeds United fans for the player they feel needs replacing most in Daniel Farke’s starting XI, and the majority will reply with Brenden Aaronson given the American’s inconsistency.
Brenden Aaronson had a hand in 11 goals during the 2024-25 season. But given he started 44 of Leeds’ 46 Championship games, his nine goals and two assists is well short of his teammates at Elland Road.
Joel Piroe had 26, Manor Solomon managed 23, Dan James got 21. Numbers that have come in a lot less game time than Aaronson, who to his credit has remained available for the entirety of the 24-25 season.
Aaronson had aimed for 30 goals and assists for the season but finished with just over a third of that total. Even Daniel Farke knows he needs replacing, having publicly asked for a new no.10 back in January.
Leeds United one of 12 clubs to make enquiry for Man City star
The need for a no.10 remains, especially with Aaronson’s future at Leeds in doubt ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States – as well as Mexico and Canada. James McAtee is a player on the radar.
Angus Kinnear confirmed Man City had rejected Leeds’ approach last summer for McAtee, with the pocket-sized playmaker since enjoying more game time at City during the second half of the season.
However, The Sunday Mirror (11/05, p64) reports that a dozen clubs have made approaches to sign 22-year-old McAtee with Leeds listed among his suitors. It is believed a fee of £25m is required for McAtee.
Who else is interested in signing James McAtee this summer…
Leeds are just one of a handful of Premier League clubs listed in showing interest for McAtee. Sheffield United are also keen, having had McAtee on loan beforehand – though play-off success is a necessity.
Nottingham Forest, West Ham and Crystal Palace are also keen, as are German giants Bayer Leverkusen. Xabi Alonso is set to depart Leverkusen, who beat Leeds to Emi Buendia’s signature back in January.
Likened to Man City legend David Silva, McAtee is hot property this summer and the talent will have to make a decision on his City future – which does look more promising after earning more game time.
