Image source, Getty ImagesManchester United and Leeds United played out a 0-0 draw in Stockholm to start their respective pre-season campaigns.
Summer signings Matheus Cunha and Diego Leon made their first appearances for Ruben Amorin's side, while Leeds new boys Lukas Nmecha and Sean Longstaff - the latter signed just yesterday from Newcastle - also featured at the Strawberry Arena.
Image source, Getty ImagesSean Longstaff says his new club Leeds is the "perfect place" for him after departing his boyhood club Newcastle.
Longstaff has agreed a four-year deal after signing for £12m plus potential add-ons. It ends an 18-year association with the Magpies, having come through the ranks at the club.
"I think it is just really exciting to get going It seems like a really good group," Longstaff told LUTV, external. "I have heard great things.
"I think there is something to be said for a team that wants you and a club that really wants you. I think from the first time I spoke to Leeds, I got a feeling that they really wanted me.
"It fills you full of confidence and it just makes you want to repay those people. It is a massive, massive football club similar to Newcastle in a lot of ways.
"It was going to take a lot for us to leave Newcastle to be honest. I wasn't just going to leave to go anywhere so it had to be the right place for me and my family and I think this is a perfect place.
"I got to watch pretty much all the games and saw a team that was really exciting to watch, athletic, really good on the ball.
"Every time I came to play at Leeds, the atmosphere was amazing. It was always bouncing and a really tough place to play.
"I am just looking forward to having that on my side rather than having to play against them."
Image source, Getty ImagesLeeds have agreed a £17m deal with German Bundesliga club Hoffenheim for midfielder Anton Stach to become Leeds' sixth signing of the summer transfer window.
The Germany international is likely to be paired with Sean Longstaff, whose £12m move from Newcastle was confirmed on Friday.
Defenders Sebastiaan Bornauw, Jaka Bijol and Gabriel Gudmundsson as well as German forward Lukas Nmecha have already moved to Elland Road so far this summer.
Stach made 39 appearances for Hoffenheim in all competitions last season, including six in the Europa League, scoring twice. He has made two appearances for the Germany national team - both coming in 2022.
What do you make of this signing?
And are you happy with your club's summer business so far?
We know a goalkeeper is still required...
Image source, Getty ImagesWe asked for your views on Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff's prospective move to Elland Road.
The 27-year-old is set to become the Whites' fifth summer signing, after the arrivals of Sebastiaan Bornauw, Jaka Bijol, Gabriel Gudmundsson and Lukas Nmecha.
So would you be happy with the addition of Premier League experience, or would your focus be somewhere else in the market?
Here are some of your thoughts:
Ed: I'm delighted by this signing. It's a bargain price for a decent midfield player with consistent Premier League experience over several seasons. Very shrewd business that I believe will pay off.
Lewis: A great signing for us. He has experience in the league, he is a good engine and he has the fighting qualities we will need to survive in the division.
Nader: All five signings so far have been good, mainly to strengthen and enlarge the defensive spine of the team. However, the most important element needed for survival in the Premier League is firepower: if you don't score, you will NOT win! Therefore the next signing - or two - must be in attack, which will require significantly more money.
Ron: We seem to have plenty of midfielders and defenders, which does give strength in depth, but I just wonder if we can keep them all happy. We need a decent centre-forward and goalkeeper.
John: Leeds badly need a goalkeeper. We need to spend a bit of money to get someone decent as a bargain basement goalkeeper won't cut it in the Premier League.
Andrew: Five great signings so far, if Longstaff comes. Three starters and two squad members. Things are looking good with plenty of time for more business to be concluded, if the rumours are true.
Adam Pope
BBC Radio Leeds reporter
Image source, Getty ImagesMidfielder Sean Longstaff is set for a move to Leeds United that would end an 18-year association with boyhood club Newcastle.
The deal is expected to concluded for a guaranteed £12m - plus £3m in potential add-ons - with the 27-year-old understood to be signing a four-year contract at Elland Road.
Longstaff joined the Magpies aged nine and made his debut for them in 2018, having initially gained experience on loan at Kilmarnock and Blackpool.
He has made 214 appearances for Newcastle, scoring 16 goals.
If a deal is completed in time, Longstaff could appear in Saturday's pre-season friendly against Manchester United in Stockholm on Saturday.
He will become Leeds' fifth signing this summer following the arrivals of defenders Sebastiaan Bornauw, Jaka Bijol and Gabriel Gudmundsson, as well as German forward Lukas Nmecha.
Are you happy with this expected signing? And what do Leeds need to do next in the transfer market?
Get in touch with your views here
Leeds United are in talks over signing Feyenoord's 25-year-old Brazilian winger Igor Paixao. (Sky Sports, external)
Want more transfer stories? Read Friday's full gossip column
Image source, Getty ImagesDefender Sam Byram says he is confident he can play a part in Leeds' effort to stay in the Premier League after signing a new one-year deal earlier this month.
He told BBC Radio Leeds: "Since signing two years ago, I'd like to think I've played my part in getting Leeds back into the league and I feel like I've been, for the most part, reliable when called upon.
"Obviously, the Premier League is a whole new beast as everyone knows, but I've had Premier League experience in the past - a few years ago now but I think the manager knows how I work and he knows me inside out. I was optimistic but in football nothing is ever guaranteed so to finally get it signed has been brilliant.
"I wouldn't have agreed to sign on if I didn't think I could contribute and still play a part.
"I'm not as young as I once was but you gain experience along the way and I might have lost an inch of sharpness, but you make up for it in positional play, organisation and all of those sorts of things.
"It has been five, maybe six, years since I last played in the Premier League. Until game one, or until I'm called upon, you can never say for certain - but I'm confident in myself, my ability and my team-mates around me for us to do a job."
Image source, Getty ImagesDefender Sebastiaan Bornauw says he watched nearly every Leeds game in the second half of last season ahead of his move to the club this summer from Wolfsburg.
He told BBC Radio Leeds: "I would say I know quite a lot because I watched the past five months. Since I knew of the interest I tried to watch nearly every game.
"I would say the second half of the season I nearly watched everything so I saw the games. I was a bit stressed as well, as probably all the fans.
"I saw the football. I would say aggressive defending, offensive play, dominating football and nice to watch - that's what I remember about it.
"The interest was there quite some time ago but we kept it really silent because I really wanted the deal to come true.
"I think it always helps to keep it silent and just announce it on the day it has to be announced.
"We did good on that from Leeds' side and our side so, happy that the deal went through."
Image source, Leeds United FCLeeds United have unveiled their away kit for the 2025-26 season.
According to the club, the latest edition is inspired by the away shirt worn between 2001 and 2003: "That kit has been a fan favourite and will bring back nostalgia from European trips, where the club graced grounds across the continent creating lifelong memories for supporters.
The shirt also has the "We are Leeds" motto on it, "evoking the passion, pride and unity on the pitch and in the stands".
Leeds United have reached an agreement in principle for Hoffenheim and Germany midfielder Anton Stach, 26. (Sky Sports Germany), external
Want more transfer stories? Read Thursday's full gossip column
Image source, Getty ImagesWe asked for your suggestions on strikers Leeds should realistically target this summer.
Here are some of your comments:
Ryan: Jamie Vardy, Callum Wilson and Calvert-Lewin are all available on a free.
M Wilson: Stick with Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph rather than taking a desperation punt. Joseph has energy and aggression in abundance. We should create enough chances.
Phil: Not too sure... except for it has to be a 'guaranteed' scorer. Pay big money 49ers - thank you. Maybe a Chelsea or Manchester City squad player as they should have spare. But bite the bullet and get someone.
Terry: People may laugh here, but Wilson on a free transfer would be ideal.
Peter: Current or recent Premier League strikers are prohibitively expensive. I would look to bring in a proven European goalscorer(s) from the Bundesliga, La Liga, Serie A or Ligue 1.
Jack: England international, Premier League experience, scored 17 goals in one of his Premier League seasons, available for no fee and , judging by the pre-season training pics, he is in the shape of his life... Mr Patrick Bamford.
Andy: I would be tempted to move Largie Ramazani to play striker and get a really good left winger like Manor Solomon, if not Solomon himself should he become available.
Apple: I agree that a striker capable of scoring goals in the Premier League will be expensive but Sunderland and Burnley have spent a lot more money in this window.
Brian: Vardy.
David: Calvert-Lewin, Wilson and Jamie Vardy are now only Championship standard and should not be considered even on a free. Rodrigo Muniz would be a statement signing of Premier league quality and could be instrumental to the ongoing development of Harry Gray.
Adam Pope
BBC Radio Leeds reporter
Image source, Getty ImagesDan James' deal to remain at Leeds United for a further four years is a clever move by the club and deserved for the player.
The flying winger's popularity has grown with supporters since he returned from a loan spell at Fulham, a deal that felt like he did not want but was the wish of then head coach Jesse Marsch.
His assists and goal contributions since returning to Elland Road in the summer of 2023 have been impressive but more so has his attitude. The Wales international has never moaned about being cast out from the club he now calls very much home.
It is a home of course from which he had the keys snatched in 2019 when at the 11th hour Swansea City chairman Huw Jenkins refused to sanction Leeds' attempt to sign him as the January transfer window closed.
This is a player who immediately after being present for the birth of his son in Manchester flew by helicopter to play 90 minutes and score in a victorious penalty shootout for Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds side at Craven Cottage in a League Cup tie.
This is a guy who also bears the scars of playing for United.
His tousled fringe can barely hide the huge wound on his forehead incurred in a head clash with Southampton's Kyle Walker-Peters in the 2024 Championship play-off final defeat at Wembley.
Bloodied, bandaged but unbowed, James returned to the fray to almost take the game to extra time with a stunning volley that crashed off the crossbar.
Having almost rescued that first full season under Daniel Farke, James was essential to Leeds' Championship title victory and a return to the Premier League the following year.
What is more, with the club having to skilfully navigate the choppy PSR waters, the amortisation of the remainder of his original £25m transfer fee over another four years makes shrewd financial sense, as does keeping a loyal and consummate professional.
Subscribe to BBC Radio Leeds' Don't Go To Bed Just Yet podcast on BBC Sounds
Image source, Getty ImagesOn the latest episode of Don't Go To Bed Just Yet, Kaiser Chiefs' bassist Simon Rix ponders whether Leeds should pay more than £12m for Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff.
"I feel like Leeds this summer so far have proven that they're not willing to be pushed on bids," he told BBC Radio Leeds. "They've bid for a few people and then when they've been outbid they've not worried too much. They haven't got into a bidding war so far.
"Whether or not there becomes a point where you have to start getting out of your comfort zone, I don't know. But I think they have made assessments on how much they want people, how much they're willing to pay and what the market value is and at the moment, they're not going beyond that.
"They did have, I believe, three bids for Longstaff. The maximum I think was £10m plus two million for bonuses, which seems very cheap for a guy with 100-plus Premier League appearances.
"It gets into Jack Harrison territory I guess - a really steady Premier League player which is probably what you need but you don't want to blow your budget."
Image source, Getty ImagesLeeds United will need to pay "big money" for a striker who will score goals in the Premier League, according to BBC Radio Leeds' Adam Pope and Jonny Buchan on the latest episode of Don't Go To Bed Just Yet.
Pope said: "I still think a goalkeeper and a centre-forward are key areas [to strengthen]. You're not going to get a striker for under £25m are you?"
"And the rest if you want somebody who is actually going to score goals in the Premier League," Buchan added.
"If you want to buy somebody who is at a Premier League club, who has scored goals in the Premier League, you're not going to pay any less than £25m.
But I think equally to lure somebody to the bottom end of the Premier League - which is what Leeds will be next season... let's all be honest about it - you're going to have to pay big money to get somebody out of a club.
"And of course, pay big wages as well."
Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds
Who would you suggest as a realistic striker target? Tell us
Alex Howell
BBC Sport football news reporter
Image source, Getty ImagesOur football news reporter Alex Howell has been answering your questions.
Sam in Ormskirk asked: Leeds United's owners have said that the public nature of their transfers has hindered them in the negotiating process. Is this something you've found to be true when reporting on transfers? However, transfers are newsworthy and fans don't want to think that their club isn't doing anything by staying silent!
Alex answered: Hi Sam. Yes, when dealing with clubs and approaching them in an official manner, the majority want to do their business quietly. When a club make everyone aware - whether that is fans or agents - of what they need during a window, other clubs can use it to their advantage and deals can become more expensive.
You are right though, supporters do want to know what is going on.
Transfer reporting has moved on too. In previous years, the approach or bid was reported but now it is every step of the process, up until the club officially announce.
It is always difficult for newly-promoted teams too, as they have such a big gap to fill.
Leeds United have reached an agreement in principle for 27-year-old Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff. (Athletic - subscription required), external
There is interest from Leeds United in signing 21-year-old Spain striker Gonzalo Garcia on loan from Real Madrid. (TBR Football), external
Want more transfer news? Read Wednesday's full gossip column
Image source, Getty ImagesWe asked for your views on Dan James' new long-term deal at the club.
Here are some of your comments:
Mark C: Can't fault James in terms of the loyalty and consistency he has shown, so securing him on a long-term contract feels right. His experience will be a valuable asset going forward.
Mandy: Absolutely delighted that Dan James has signed a long-term deal to stay at Leeds. His work rate and commitment is exemplary. Well done Dan.
Rex: DJ is probably the most improved player in the squad over the last two seasons. He's turned from a one dimensional speed merchant into a tricky, hard working all-rounder. Credit must go to Daniel Farke and his coaching team.
Scott: Excellent news that our best player from last season is happy to extend his contract with us in his prime, and have a real good crack at the Premier League again next season.
Paul: Best bit of news out of Elland Road for a long, long time.
John: He's been a brilliant performer for Leeds, especially once he got rid of his Old Trafford hangover. His pace and directness will scare even the most seasoned Premier League defender but I expect there will be some tackling skulduggery to try and slow him down to be honest.
Mark: Dan James has had a couple of fabulous Championship seasons so I'm delighted he has signed up again. It's as important to retain the right players as it is to sign new ones. His speed will be vital to Leeds if we play counter attacking football so it's great to have him on board.
Dan: This is a great bit of business for us and James. He was not only our best player but arguably the best player in the Championship too. He never stops working and he's finally getting that end product that was missing, plus he has plenty of Premier League experience. Delighted!
Image source, Leeds UnitedLeeds United midfielder Dan James has signed a new long-term deal to keep him at the club until 2029.
The 27-year-old joined the Whites on a five-year contract in 2021 from Manchester United and has been a consistent figure in the side since signing, making 123 appearances across all competitions and supplying 29 goals and 22 assists.
James was voted by Leeds supporters as the club's player of the season for the 2024-25 campaign after helping the team to the Championship title and scoring 12 goals in 36 games.
What do you make of the news?
Happy to see such a long deal?
Is it as good as a new signing?
The latest Don't Go To Bed Just Yet is here and on this week's show, BBC Radio Leeds' Jonny Buchan and Adam Pope and Kaiser Chiefs' bassist Simon Rix start counting down to the first pre-season fixture.
The players are back in training and some new faces are on show, but a clamour remains for more signings before the club's Premier League return.
What do the Whites still need?
Listen to the chat now on BBC Sounds
Image source, Getty ImagesNewcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff has caught the eye of newly promoted Leeds, but will he leave this summer?
The 27-year-old has made 214 senior appearances for the club, but played just 787 minutes in the Premier League last season after mainly coming on as a substitute.
"Longstaff seems to have fallen out of favour at Newcastle," said former Magpies defender John Anderson on BBC Radio Newcastle. "Even when he wasn't starting, Eddie Howe would always bring him on in games but since January he has fallen down the pecking order.
"He wasn't getting as much game time as he would have to wanted either, so he needs the move because he needs to be playing football.
"Everyone knows that Newcastle's midfield three picks itself now but the deal has got to be right.
"You can't let sentiment get in the way because if you want to progress and move forward then these decisions have to be made.
"I think Leeds' offer of £10m is too low and he is worth at least £15m if not more because of the experience he brings."
Image source, Getty ImagesSwedish journalist Olof Lundh says new Leeds United full-back Gabriel Gudmundsson will add an extra dimension to their attack.
The Sweden international should slot into the left wing-back role previously held by Junior Firpo after making the £10m switch from Lille and signing a four-year deal at Elland Road.
"He is more of a Junior Firpo type of player," Lundh told BBC Radio Leeds' Don't Go To Bed Just Yet podcast.
"But I don't know if Daniel Farke will go with three central defenders. [If so], then Gabriel Gudmundsson would be a great wing-back. As a full-back, he will have challenges defensively. But he is great offensively.
"In the national team, they've used him as one of three central defenders, as a left central defender.
"His skills are mostly in the offensive part of the game, but he has developed a lot in the French league, which is quite a tough, physical league. He has grown a lot, mentally and become tougher. He has taken on challenges and done really well."
