Four free agents Leeds United could target, including ex-Man Utd star and World Cup hero

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19 July 2026

Leeds United’s summer rebuild is gathering pace under Daniel Farke. Winger Harry Wilson has arrived on a free after leaving Fulham, and a £34 million deal for 23-year-old defender Tarik Muharemovic is in place. Spending is expected to be monitored after Pascal Struijk was sold to Brighton to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules.

According to Leeds Live, value will be vital this window and free transfers offer a way to strengthen without stretching the budget, so four out-of-contract options have been identified.

A centre-back remains a priority after Struijk’s exit. John Stones, 32, left Manchester City in June after a trophy-laden decade and is unattached. He may not decide his future until after the World Cup, but a return to Yorkshire could appeal to the Barnsley-born defender.

Julian Brandt, 30, is available after ending an eight-year stint with Borussia Dortmund and can operate across several attacking roles. Real Betis and Besiktas are interested.

Oleksandr Zinchenko is another experienced free agent after spells with Manchester City and Arsenal, followed by the second half of last season at Ajax. A knee injury curtailed his time in Amsterdam, but his versatility and Premier League pedigree could make him an attractive option.

Former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe has left Burnley and is seeking a new club. The DR Congo international impressed at the World Cup and brings significant Premier League experience despite successive relegations with Ipswich Town and Burnley. Hull City are among the sides interested.

Source:

Leeds Live

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