Leeds United’s transfer activity in January 2026 is highlighted by a club-record pursuit of Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Jorgen Strand Larsen and the successful loan acquisition of Facundo Buonanotte. Under the management of Daniel Farke, the club has prioritized offensive reinforcements to secure their Premier League status, making a significant bid rumored to be in the region of £40 million for Strand Larsen. Additionally, the Whites have secured Facundo Buonanotte on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion after a stint at Chelsea was terminated, providing immediate creativity to the midfield. Outgoings have also been active, with veteran winger Jack Harrison departing for Fiorentina on a loan deal that includes a purchase option.
In this comprehensive 2026 transfer report, we analyze the strategic recruitment policy of the 49ers Enterprises, the breakdown of official “Ins and Outs,” and the latest rumors surrounding high-profile targets like Harry Wilson and Troy Parrott. Whether you are tracking deadline day drama or looking for long-term squad depth analysis, this guide provides the authoritative data on Leeds United’s winter business.
Jorgen Strand Larsen: Record Pursuit
Leeds United have identified Norwegian striker Jorgen Strand Larsen as their primary target to lead the line for the remainder of the 2025/26 season. Negotiations with Wolves intensified in late January 2026, with Leeds reportedly submitting an improved bid to meet the £40 million valuation set by the West Midlands club.
The 25-year-old forward has expressed a desire to remain in the Premier League, making Elland Road an attractive destination despite interest from Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest. If completed, this deal would represent a landmark investment for Leeds, eclipsing previous transfer records and signaling the club’s intent to establish themselves as a top-flight mainstay.
Facundo Buonanotte: Midfield Creative Spark
In one of the more surprising moves of the January window, Leeds United secured the signature of Facundo Buonanotte on a loan basis. The Argentine playmaker joined from Brighton after a complex mid-season recall from a previous loan at Chelsea, with Daniel Farke promising the youngster the “platform and stage” to regain his top fitness and form.
Buonanotte’s arrival addresses a critical need for a central creative hub at Elland Road. His technical proficiency and ability to operate both as a “number 10” and on the right wing provide Farke with much-needed tactical flexibility during a congested fixture period.
Outgoing Transfers: Jack Harrison Departs
A significant departure this window saw Jack Harrison move to Serie A side Fiorentina on a loan deal until the end of the season. The agreement includes an option for the Italian club to make the move permanent for a fee of approximately £6 million (€7 million) in the summer of 2026.
Harrison, who had made 13 appearances for Leeds earlier in the season, was deemed surplus to requirements as the club looks to modernize their attacking options. His departure clears significant space on the wage bill, potentially facilitating the arrival of higher-profile targets like Harry Wilson.
Harry Wilson: The Fulham Connection
Leeds United are reportedly monitoring Harry Wilson’s situation at Fulham as contract talks between the Welsh international and the Cottagers have stalled. With uncertainty surrounding the future of Fulham’s management, Wilson is said to be assessing his options, and Leeds have emerged as a front-runner for his signature.
Valued for his set-piece delivery and long-range shooting, Wilson is viewed as an ideal replacement for the departing Jack Harrison. While a deal alongside the Strand Larsen pursuit would be expensive, the Leeds hierarchy is reportedly considering a late-window swoop to further bolster the squad’s “Premier League experience” quotient.
Troy Parrott: The Dutch Sensation
Rumours have linked Leeds with a £20 million move for Republic of Ireland international Troy Parrott, who has been in sensational form for AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie. After a series of hat-tricks and standout performances in the Netherlands, Parrott has drawn attention from several English clubs looking for clinical finishing.
The potential arrival of Parrott would likely signal the end of Joël Piroe’s tenure at the club, with the Dutch forward heavily linked with a move to Celtic. Parrott’s mobility and high-pressing style are seen as a better fit for Farke’s evolving tactical system compared to Piroe’s more static role.
Defensive Reinforcements: Axel Disasi Links
Leeds United are reportedly pushing for a late deal to sign Chelsea “monster” Axel Disasi to strengthen a backline that has struggled for consistency. While the club invested in Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw in the summer of 2025, Farke remains keen on adding more Premier League-proven physicality to the central defense.
Disasi has found himself on the fringes of the Chelsea squad under their current management, making a loan or permanent move to Elland Road a viable possibility. His ability to play both as a center-back and a conservative right-back would provide valuable cover for Jayden Bogle and James Justin.
Practical Information and Planning
For fans following Leeds United’s journey through the Premier League and the transfer market, staying updated requires knowing where to look and what to expect from the club’s operations.
- Transfer Window Dates: The Winter window closes on January 31, 2026, at 11:00 PM GMT.
- Official Announcements: All confirmed deals are first posted on the official Leeds United website and verified social media channels.
- Stadium Access: For those visiting Elland Road, the ticket office is open Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Transport: The R2 shuttle bus runs from Leeds City Center to the stadium on match days; pre-booking is advised during the busy winter period.
- What to Expect: A high-intensity atmosphere and a club that is currently in a “build and consolidate” phase under the 49ers ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Leeds bid for Jorgen Strand Larsen?
Leeds United have reportedly submitted an improved bid of approximately £40 million to Wolves. Negotiations are ongoing as of late January 2026.
Who has Leeds United signed in January 2026?
The most notable official signing is Facundo Buonanotte, who joined on loan from Brighton. Charlie Crew also returned from a loan spell at Doncaster Rovers.
Is Jack Harrison still a Leeds United player?
Technically yes, but he is currently on loan at Fiorentina in Italy. The deal includes a £6 million option to buy in the summer of 2026.
Will Joël Piroe leave Leeds this window?
There is significant speculation linking Piroe with a move to Celtic, especially if Leeds successfully completes the signing of Troy Parrott or Strand Larsen.
Who is the current manager of Leeds United?
Daniel Farke remains the head coach of Leeds United, having led them back to the Premier League and through the 2025/26 campaign.
Where is Jaka Bijol?
Defender Jaka Bijol is currently recovering from a hamstring injury but is expected to return to the squad in early February 2026.
Are Leeds United complying with PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules)?
Yes, the sale of players like Jack Harrison and the strategic use of loan signings like Buonanotte are part of the club’s plan to remain within the Premier League’s financial regulations.
Is Dominic Calvert-Lewin still at Leeds?
Yes, Dominic Calvert-Lewin joined Leeds as a free agent in August 2025 and remains a key part of the first-team squad in 2026.
Can I buy tickets for the next Leeds home game?
Tickets are generally available to members first; due to high demand in the 2025/26 season, most games at Elland Road are sold out weeks in advance.
Who will be the captain of Leeds United in 2026?
Ethan Ampadu continues to serve as the club captain, providing a consistent leadership presence in the midfield and defense.
What happened to Brenden Aaronson?
Brenden Aaronson remains at the club and has recently been deployed in a more central midfield role by Daniel Farke to accommodate new wingers.
Final Thoughts
The January 2026 transfer window marks a definitive turning point in Leeds United’s modern history. By pursuing a club-record deal for Jorgen Strand Larsen and successfully integrating high-caliber creative talent like Facundo Buonanotte, the 49ers Enterprises have demonstrated a clear financial commitment to establishing the club as a Premier League staple. The strategic balance of trimming the squad—exemplified by Jack Harrison’s move to Fiorentina—while aggressively targeting proven defensive reinforcements like Axel Disasi reveals a sophisticated recruitment policy designed for long-term sustainability.
As the deadline approaches on January 31, the focus shifts from speculation to execution. Whether Leeds can finalize the “bargain” pursuit of Harry Wilson or hold off competitors for Troy Parrott, the groundwork laid this winter provides Daniel Farke with the tools necessary to navigate the challenges of the top flight. For the Elland Road faithful, this window is more than just a series of “done deals”; it is a statement of intent that the Whites are no longer merely competing to survive, but are building to thrive.
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