Leeds United pursue Julian Brandt as free‑transfer move stalls

German midfielder Julian Brandt, 30, is available on a free transfer after ending a seven‑year spell with Borussia Dortmund. He has expressed a strong desire to continue playing European football, a condition Leeds United cannot meet because the club finished 14th in the Premier League and lacks a European berth.

Leeds remain interested and are monitoring other suitors, including Roma, Ajax and Trabzonspor, who can offer European competition. Real Betis have already declined the chance to sign Brandt, and his salary expectations – around €8 million a year at Dortmund – could also be a hurdle for the English club.

Former players and pundits suggest the Premier League would be an attractive move for Brandt, and Leeds manager Daniel Farke hopes the midfielder could boost the team’s creativity if a deal is reached.