Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has revealed that the club will make a decision within the next two weeks on whether to bring in a free agent. With injuries to key midfielders Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev, the Whites are assessing their options to strengthen the squad.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday (16 October), as reported by Leeds Live, Farke stressed the urgency of the situation. He made it clear that any potential signing would need to happen soon, with no intention of waiting until November to finalise a deal.

“It won’t last more weeks. It will not be end of November. It would be quickly, if at all,” Farke explained.

“Perhaps candidates are already working on their fitness level behind closed doors. We do our homework. It will just be there when a deal would make sense.

“We spoke about October challenges. It’s a unique case for us. We don’t have to be too strict. Due to the injuries, we have to be professional and check it.

“We don’t need just a good footballer, we need to know that the player is convinced of their challenge and role here. It has to be a sensitive deal. We cannot spend a fortune on such a deal. A few boxes have to be ticked.

“We’re not too far from a decision. We want to lead this club in a sustainable way. In the next two weeks or not at all,” the German manager added.

Leeds United are feeling the pressure after losing two of their first-choice midfielders. Ampadu and Gruev, both crucial to Farke’s system, are out of action, leaving Leeds light in midfield.

Currently, the only experienced central midfielders available are Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka, both of whom have performed admirably in recent weeks. However, any further setbacks could leave Farke with limited options.

Teenager Charlie Crew has also been part of the first-team squad recently, with the manager placing faith in the young midfielder. But Leeds must be cautious in managing Crew’s introduction to avoid placing too much pressure on the 17-year-old.

One name linked with a move to Elland Road was former Nottingham Forest midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate. However, the Senegal international reportedly failed his medical, leaving Leeds to explore alternative targets.

With the clock ticking and Leeds’ promotion ambitions at stake, it is clear that reinforcements are essential. Whether the club finds the right free agent in time will be crucial as Farke looks to maintain momentum in their push for success.