Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is pressing ahead with plans to bolster his midfield options by signing a free agent, with seven-times capped France international Josuha Guilavogui emerging as the top candidate.
With injuries to key midfielders and a desire to add depth, Farke is keen to bring in an experienced player who can also cover in central defence.
Leeds United’s Midfield Concerns
Leeds delivered an impressive performance on Friday, defeating previously unbeaten Sheffield United 2-0 to move up to third in the Championship table. Despite this strong showing, Farke remains concerned about his squad’s depth in midfield. Injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev have left Leeds thin in the engine room, and the manager is wary of facing further injury setbacks. With Ampadu and Gruev sidelined for several weeks, the club is eager to avoid a potential midfield crisis.
In light of this, Leeds have been scouring the free agent market. Previous attempts to sign former Nottingham Forest midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate fell through due to financial disagreements, and while Arsenal alumnus Francis Coquelin was also considered, attention has now turned to Guilavogui.
Guilavogui Ticks the Right Boxes
Guilavogui, who last played for Bundesliga side Mainz, is seen as an ideal candidate for the role Leeds need to fill. The 34-year-old primarily plays as a defensive midfielder but can also cover in central defence—two positions where Leeds are seeking reinforcements. Farke has been clear that any signing needs to accept a backup role, as Ethan Ampadu remains the first-choice holding midfielder when fit.
In a post-match interview, Farke explained the club’s current approach:
“In an ideal situation, we’d bring in a deep-lying midfielder who could also cope with the centre-back position. He would come in to be a back-up solution, to bring his experience and teach and educate our young players.”
Farke emphasized that Leeds are seeking a player who can guide younger squad members and contribute in high-pressure situations, even if only in a supporting role. Guilavogui, with his international experience and versatility, fits the bill perfectly.
However, there are concerns over his fitness, as his last appearance came in March.
Writer’s View
Leeds United’s move for Josuha Guilavogui reflects a pragmatic approach to addressing their squad’s current needs. Farke’s emphasis on experience and versatility is key in a season as gruelling as the Championship. If Guilavogui can regain fitness quickly, his presence could offer invaluable leadership and tactical flexibility at a critical point in Leeds’ promotion push.
Founder of The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
