Leeds United Almost Spent £16.8m on 24-Year-Old in the Premier League, Now His Club Has Loaned Him Out

Leeds United are aiming for a swift return to the Premier League this season, banking on their revamped recruitment strategy under the 49ers’ new leadership to deliver success.

This approach marks a significant departure from the previous structure, where Victor Orta, as director of football, was in charge until his departure in May, shortly before the club’s relegation.

During the January transfer window, Leeds bolstered their squad by signing Max Wöber, Georginio Rutter, and Weston McKennie to strengthen their defense, midfield, and attack.

However, these additions were not their primary targets.

For instance, Viktor Gyokeres was strongly linked as a striker option—a missed opportunity that now seems like a significant oversight.

Additionally, Moroccan World Cup star Azzedine Ounahi was a key target for the midfield.

Leeds even held discussions with Ounahi’s representatives while he was still with Angers. However, they were met with a €20 million (£16.84m) asking price.

Surprisingly, Ounahi later moved to Marseille for just €10 million (£8.42m), prompting Leeds to pivot to McKennie instead. In hindsight, this deal didn’t benefit the club, although it did give McKennie a chance to reignite his career.

Despite the questionable outcomes of their Premier League transfer strategy, Leeds might have made the right call in not committing to Ounahi.

Roberto De Zerbi, now managing Marseille, eventually deemed Ounahi surplus to requirements, leading to his loan move to Greek side Panathinaikos.

According to GFFN, the loan includes a buy option, signaling that Ounahi likely has no future with Marseille in the top flight.

Since his standout World Cup performance, Ounahi’s form has been underwhelming, and Leeds’ near £17 million investment in him could have further complicated their financial situation, already strained by relegation.

In retrospect, avoiding this deal may have spared Leeds from even greater financial trouble.