Leeds United suffer Julian Brandt transfer setback as Real Betis enter the race

Leeds United’s summer transfer business has finally gathered momentum after weeks of frustration among supporters who feared the club was moving too slowly following promotion back to the Premier League.

Those concerns eased significantly after the Whites reached an agreement to sign Wales international Harry Wilson from Fulham. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has since confirmed that all the paperwork has been completed, with Wilson expected to sign a four-year contract at Elland Road.

The arrival of Wilson is viewed as a major boost for Daniel Farke, who has been keen to add creativity and proven Premier League quality to his squad. The 29-year-old has built a reputation as one of the Championship’s most productive attacking players while also contributing valuable goals and assists in the Premier League. His set-piece delivery, vision and ability to score from distance should give Leeds another dimension going forward.

However, while the club appears close to securing one attacking reinforcement, another ambitious move may already be facing serious competition.

Leeds balancing arrivals with key departures

Leeds are expected to sanction the departure of Pascal Struijk after reaching a verbal agreement with Brighton over a deal reportedly worth around £20 million.

The Dutch defender has been an important figure since arriving from Ajax’s academy in 2018, making well over 150 appearances for the Whites. Comfortable at both centre-back and left-back, Struijk played a significant role during Leeds’ Premier League years and was part of the squad that earned promotion back to the top flight.

Reports suggest the 25-year-old is ready for a fresh challenge after declining to sign a new contract, leaving Leeds with little option but to cash in before risking losing him for a reduced fee later.

His departure will force Leeds to strengthen defensively, but attention has also turned towards adding another elite attacking midfielder.

Leeds handed Julian Brandt setback

Following confirmation of the Harry Wilson deal, reports emerged that Leeds have genuine interest in Borussia Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt.

The Germany international is expected to leave Dortmund this summer after the expiration of his contract, making him one of the most attractive free agents available. Club sources have indicated that Leeds have explored the possibility of bringing him to Elland Road, although no formal offer has yet been submitted.

Now, according to Mucho Deporte, Leeds could face significant competition.

The Spanish outlet reports that Brandt’s father and agent, Jürgen Brandt, was seen at Real Betis’ training ground this week, where he is believed to have held talks with sporting director Manu Fajardo.

Sources close to the La Liga club claim the meeting was intended to offer Brandt to Betis as they assess options to strengthen their midfield this summer.

No agreement has been reached, and there is no indication that negotiations are advanced. Betis are also considering other midfield targets, including Dani Ceballos, meaning Brandt’s future remains unresolved.

Nevertheless, the development represents a potential setback for Leeds, who may now have to compete with clubs capable of offering European football.

Why Brandt remains an attractive target

Brandt would represent one of Leeds’ most high-profile signings in recent years.

The 30-year-old began his senior career with Bayer Leverkusen before joining Borussia Dortmund in 2019 for a fee worth around €25 million. During his time at Dortmund he became one of the Bundesliga’s most creative midfielders, producing goals and assists consistently while featuring regularly in the UEFA Champions League.

Known for his technical quality, intelligence between the lines and versatility, Brandt can operate as a central attacking midfielder, wide playmaker or deeper creative option. His ability to unlock packed defences and create chances would address one of Leeds’ biggest weaknesses heading into the new Premier League season.

He has also earned more than 45 caps for Germany, representing his country at major international tournaments and playing alongside some of Europe’s elite talents.

Can Leeds still complete the deal?

Leeds have already demonstrated under the 49ers ownership that they are prepared to invest in experienced international players. Last summer’s arrivals of Jaka Bijol and Gabriel Gudmundsson showed the club’s growing ambition, but Brandt would arguably represent an even bigger statement.

The biggest obstacle remains the competition.

Should Real Betis decide to prioritise Brandt, they may be able to offer Europa League football, something Leeds cannot match after returning to the Premier League. Financial demands could also prove challenging given Brandt’s experience and previous salary at Borussia Dortmund.

However, Leeds can still present an attractive sporting project. Daniel Farke has a strong reputation for developing attacking players, while the opportunity to become the creative focal point of a historic Premier League club could appeal to Brandt if regular football is his priority.

With Harry Wilson already on his way and further additions expected before the transfer window closes, Leeds are building a squad capable of competing in the Premier League.

Whether Julian Brandt becomes the marquee signing supporters are hoping for remains uncertain, but interest from Real Betis means the Whites may now have to win a far more difficult battle to secure one of Europe’s most accomplished free agents.