Leeds United transfer deadline day live: Connor Roberts joins Whites, winger exit, late blow for rivals

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Leeds United were on the verge of exiting this season's January transfer window without conducting any incoming business, much to the dismay of Whites supporters.

Leeds have until 11pm this evening - Thursday, February 1 - to bolster Daniel Farke's first-team squad, or face the reality of pushing for promotion with his existing group.

It has been suggested that Leeds' squad is weaker than it was a month ago, after the departures of Djed Spence and Luke Ayling, along with several peripheral youngsters exiting on various loan deals and permanent transfers. Recent results would suggest otherwise, though, with five wins from six games in 2024 and a 100 per cent record in the Championship since the turn of the year.

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That said, Leeds have relied on the versatility of Ethan Ampadu to feature at centre-back in Pascal Struijk and Liam Cooper's absence, meanwhile midfielder Archie Gray remains Farke's first-choice right-back, and does not turn 18 until next month. The worry amongst fans is that neither solution is sustainable, particularly if the team suffer a number of injuries in key positions.

The manager did admit during his pre-Bristol City press conference yesterday that one or two deals came 'very close' to completion this month, but injuries prohibited Leeds from making their move, or at least made them think twice. One such player was Japanese international full-back Daiki Hashioka, who has subsequently signed for Premier League outfit Luton Town.

Farke also said Leeds are 'restricted' by financial rules and past business with several high-earning players still on the club's books despite being out on loan this season. Burnley duo Manuel Benson and Connor Roberts and Everton's Ben Godfrey have all been named by various sources as players Leeds may look to pursue, but time is running out.

Follow all the updates as they happen on deadline day with our dedicated live blog. We'll be covering everything from start to finish, and possibly even beyond, if Leeds clinch a late move and require a deal sheet to get it signed, sealed and delivered past the deadline.

Leeds United Transfer Deadline Day LIVE

Leeds still expected to complete the loan signing of Connor Roberts later today.

Graham Smyth on Harry Souttar

Farke has also been clear that none of his group would be allowed to leave today, including skipper Liam Cooper - in whom there was interest from Blackburn Rovers. The YEP understands that as it stands Souttar's arrival, if Leeds could get it over the line, would not lead to further departures from Elland Road in the remainder of the window.

Leicester City centre-back Harry Souttar linked with Leeds this morning. United are well-stocked at right-sided centre-back and Souttar is not one who could also deputise at right-back.

Player is evidently keen to exit the King Power Stadium, though, therefore Leeds are exploring their options.

Burnley now on the verge of confirming a deal for Stade Rennais right-back Lorenz Assignon. The 23-year-old is expected to be announced at Turf Moor later today.

Another domino falls in Leeds' pursuit of Roberts.

Connor Roberts is a name which has refused to go away during the January window. A right-back with Premier League and international experience, who is known to several members of the current squad.

Various reports now suggesting Leeds are plotting a late move to bring him in before tonight's 11pm deadline. In addition, Burnley are supposedly interested in bringing in Belgian right-back Thomas Meunier, which would free up Roberts to leave.

Watch Joe and Graham lay out what's expected today at LUFC

Graham Smyth's take on Leeds' needs

Leeds United boss Daniel Farke Leeds United boss Daniel Farke
Leeds United boss Daniel Farke

The YEP's chief football writer on what Leeds are looking for, how they got here and whether it matters if they don't get their target

Read it HERE

Good morning and welcome to Deadline Day

The transfer window closes this evening and with it will go the last chance for Leeds United and their promotion rivals to add to their respective squads.

For the Whites, it's clear that a couple of fresh faces would do the world of good as they continue to rely on some square pegs in slightly rounder holes but it's never straightforward getting a deal done on the final day.

The YEP team will be here right to the finish to update you on everything happening in the Leeds camp and around the division

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