Leeds United have abandoned their move to sign veteran midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate after the 34-year-old failed to pass a medical, sources have told Football Insider.
The free agent had been in advanced talks with the club and underwent medical tests on Tuesday, but Leeds’ medical team did not grant him clearance to complete the signing.
Leeds United Medical Collapses
The Senegalese international, who was released by Nottingham Forest in the summer, had been identified as a short-term solution to Leeds’ injury crisis in midfield. Manager Daniel Farke was keen to secure Kouyate’s services following long-term injuries to key midfielders Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev. Both players are expected to be out until the new year due to knee injuries, leaving Leeds thin in central midfield options.
“Kouyate underwent medical tests at Leeds United on Tuesday, but unfortunately he did not get the all-clear from the club’s staff,” a source close to the club confirmed. “Leeds had been hopeful of signing him on a free transfer, but will now need to look for alternative options.”
Kouyate, a seasoned Premier League player with previous stints at Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, and West Ham United, became a free agent after Forest decided not to renew his contract. His availability had attracted interest from Leeds as they looked to shore up their midfield ahead of a busy period in the Championship.
The failed move is a setback for Leeds, who will now need to reassess their transfer strategy. Farke had hoped to bring Kouyate in to provide some immediate reinforcement to the squad before the January transfer window opens. With Kouyate off the table, Leeds are expected to explore other free-agent options to address their depleted midfield.
Writer’s View
Kouyate’s failed medical represents a blow to Leeds United’s short-term plans, especially given the club’s current injury woes. While Kouyate would have brought much-needed experience, the fact that the deal fell through may also be seen as a blessing in disguise, avoiding the potential risk of signing an injured or unfit player. Leeds must now pivot quickly to secure another option, with free agents their most likely route until the January window.
Editor In Chief