Leeds United are under pressure in the opening stages of the 2025-26 Premier League season and are already looking at signings in January.
Los Blancos have reportedly identified a promising candidate to strengthen their engine room, as current manager Daniel Farke is keen to end the club’s lackluster start and inject new energy into the midfield.
According to Africa Foot, Leeds are “close to reaching a verbal agreement” to sign young Malian midfielder Issoufou Sissouhou from Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Leeds United aim to sign more players
It is understandable that Leeds are in a hurry in the transfer market. After eight games of the season, they are in 15th place in the Premier League standings, having won only two games and lost half of their opening games.
The club’s underwhelming performance has many problems stemming from a quiet summer period and a squad depth that is already showing its limits. In response, clubs appear ready to act ahead of the winter months.
Leeds have already reached a verbal agreement in principle with Maccabi Tel Aviv and aim to make a formal offer for Sisoho in the coming weeks. The player is said to show enough quality to merit interest from Leeds.
This midfielder is known for being high-energy, strong in duels, capable on the ball, and realistic if not flashy.
Daniel Falke has a big decision to make
Of course, there are questions to answer. Leeds already have options for holding roles in midfield such as Anton Stach, Ilya Guluev and Ethan Ampadu.
Will Sissokho end up replacing one of them, or is this move envisioned as a rotation piece to shore up depth?
Whispers around Leeds suggest this deal is more about future prospects than just immediate needs, which makes sense given his recent form.
If this verbal agreement becomes a formal offer and the transfer is completed, Sisoho could become a meaningful addition to the team, providing stability in midfield and the ability to recycle the ball, which has been lacking so far this season.
Journalist confirms Leeds plan to sign in January – could lead to player leaving