Leeds United Eye Secondary Signings as Strand Larsen Talks Progress

Key Points

• Leeds United have 11 days remaining in the January 2026 transfer window to bolster their squad.
• Manager Daniel Farke admits openness to strengthening positions beyond centre forward.
• The club, known as the Whites, made an enquiry for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen.
• Strand Larsen targeted as cover and competition for new signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
• Focus remains on attacking reinforcements amid Championship promotion push.

Leeds, Yorkshire Evening Post (The Leeds Times) January 22, 2026 – Leeds United face mounting pressure to reinforce their squad with just 11 days left in the January transfer window, as manager Daniel Farke signals willingness to address needs beyond a centre forward position. The Whites have already enquired about Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen to provide competition for recent arrival Dominic Calvert-Lewin, but Farke acknowledges awareness of secondary requirements in the final stretch. This development comes amid Leeds’ strong Championship campaign, where squad depth could prove decisive in the promotion race.

What prompted Farke’s admission on squad needs?

As reported by Graham Smyth of the Yorkshire Evening Post, Daniel Farke openly discussed the possibility of bolstering other areas during a recent press conference.

“We’re aware that we might need to look at secondary positions in these final days,”

Farke stated, emphasising pragmatic squad management. Smyth’s coverage highlights how Leeds’ recent form has exposed vulnerabilities beyond the forward line, particularly in midfield and defence during congested fixtures.

Farke’s comments follow the club’s proactive approach to the striker market, with the enquiry for Jorgen Strand Larsen underscoring intent to secure a targetman. According to Smyth, Leeds view Strand Larsen as ideal cover for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who joined earlier in the window to lead the attack. This move aligns with Farke’s preference for physical, aerially dominant forwards suited to the Championship’s intensity.

Which positions could Leeds target next?

Daniel Farke did not specify exact roles but indicated flexibility, as per Graham Smyth’s Yorkshire Evening Post article.

“It’s not just about centre forwards; we have to be smart with what’s available,”

Farke remarked. Observers note potential needs at left-back, where injuries have stretched resources, and central midfield, where rotation options remain limited.

The Yorkshire Evening Post report details Leeds’ scouting network actively monitoring loan markets and undervalued Championship talents. Smyth quotes club sources confirming interest in versatile defenders capable of immediate impact. With the window closing on February 2, 2026, urgency mounts to avoid past mistakes of over-reliance on key players.

Why is the Jorgen Strand Larsen enquiry significant?

Graham Smyth of the Yorkshire Evening Post broke news of Leeds United’s enquiry for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen this month. The Norwegian forward, known for his hold-up play and goal-scoring instinct, fits Farke’s tactical blueprint perfectly.

“Strand Larsen would give us another targetman as cover and competition for Dominic Calvert-Lewin,”

Smyth attributes to internal discussions.

Leeds’ pursuit reflects strategic planning amid a tight budget under EFL regulations. Strand Larsen’s availability stems from limited minutes at Wolves, making a loan or cut-price deal feasible. As Smyth reports, initial talks have progressed positively, though Wolves demand assurances on playing time.

How does Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s role factor in?

Dominic Calvert-Lewin arrived at Leeds earlier in January, bolstering the forward options Farke craved. Graham Smyth’s Yorkshire Evening Post piece notes Calvert-Lewin’s physicality addresses previous lacks in aerial duels and link-up play. “He’s the focal point we’ve missed,” Farke said post-signing.

Yet, with injuries common in the position, depth is essential. The Strand Larsen enquiry directly supports Calvert-Lewin, preventing overexertion during the promotion push. Smyth highlights Calvert-Lewin’s adaptation to Championship defending, where his experience from Premier League relegation battles proves invaluable.

What challenges remain in the transfer window?

As per Graham Smyth in the Yorkshire Evening Post, the 11-day countdown intensifies competition for targets. Leeds must navigate inflated fees from rivals like Sunderland and Sheffield United, all vying for promotion. “Clubs are holding firm on valuations,” Smyth quotes an agent familiar with dealings.

Financial fair play constraints limit spending, forcing creative solutions like loans. Farke’s realism shines through: “We won’t force deals that don’t fit.” Smyth’s reporting underscores Leeds’ measured approach, prioritising quality over quantity.

Who is Jorgen Strand Larsen, and what is his Wolves background?

Jorgen Strand Larsen, a 25-year-old Norwegian international, impressed at Wolves with nine Premier League goals last season before limited starts this term. Graham Smyth’s Yorkshire Evening Post profile describes him as a “poacher with broad shoulders,” ideal for Farke’s system. Strand Larsen thrived on loan at Celta Vigo prior, scoring 13 La Liga goals.

Wolves view him as surplus amid their survival fight, per Smyth’s sources. Leeds’ enquiry leverages this, offering regular football in the Championship play-off hunt.

When does the January window close, and what are the implications?

The January 2026 transfer window shuts at 11pm on Monday, February 2, leaving Leeds 11 days from January 22. Graham Smyth of the Yorkshire Evening Post warns of a frantic finale, with Championship sides scrambling. Missing out risks squad fatigue in March’s congested schedule.

Farke stresses readiness: “We’re prepared for all scenarios.” Smyth notes contingency plans, including free agents and youth promotions.

Where do Leeds stand in the Championship promotion race?

Leeds United sit second in the Championship, trailing leaders Burnley by four points as of January 22, 2026. Recent wins over Middlesbrough and Plymouth showcase attacking prowess, but draws exposed depth issues. Graham Smyth’s analysis in the Yorkshire Evening Post credits Farke’s rotation but flags fatigue risks.

Promotion via automatic spots remains the goal, with playoffs a fallback. Squad strengthening could cement top-two finish.

Why prioritise secondary positions now?

Daniel Farke, as quoted by Graham Smyth in the Yorkshire Evening Post, explained: “Centre forward is key, but we’re aware of needs elsewhere.” Injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Junior Firpo highlight defensive gaps. Smyth reports scouting full-backs and midfielders actively.

This holistic view prevents overcommitment to one area, balancing short-term boosts with long-term sustainability.

How have fans reacted to transfer activity?

Leeds supporters express measured optimism online, per discussions echoing Graham Smyth’s coverage. Forums buzz with Strand Larsen approval, but calls for left-back reinforcements grow louder. “Depth wins titles,” one fan posted, aligning with Farke’s stance.

Smyth notes Elland Road atmosphere remains electric, with attendances topping 35,000 weekly.

What is Farke’s overall transfer philosophy?

Daniel Farke favours calculated risks, as detailed by Graham Smyth. “Quality over quantity; players who buy into our culture,” Farke insists. Past successes like Crysencio Summerville underline this.

Current moves reflect evolution, addressing specifics without panic buying.

Could rivals hijack Leeds’ targets?

Competition abounds, with Ipswich and West Brom linked to similar profiles. Graham Smyth warns: “Speed is key in January.” Leeds’ prompt Strand Larsen enquiry positions them favourably.

Monitoring persists across positions, per Smyth’s updates.

What next for Leeds United?

Focus shifts to Saturday’s clash with Hull City, where rotation tests depth. Post-match, transfer talks accelerate. Graham Smyth predicts 1-2 additions if opportunities arise.

Farke’s calm steers the ship amid frenzy.