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Leeds United’s Pursuit of a No.10: Buendía and Hamer Lead the Race

As the summer transfer window heats up, Leeds United’s transfer activity has revolved largely around strengthening their attack and shoring up their defense. With new additions like Lukas Nmecha already confirmed and Jaka Bijol reportedly undergoing a medical in West Yorkshire, the club’s recruitment strategy under Daniel Farke seems to be taking shape. Yet, one key area remains noticeably under-addressed — the No.10 role.

Despite all the buzz surrounding forwards and center-backs, the creative midfield slot, often referred to as the “playmaker” position, hasn’t seen a high-profile signing or clear target until now. And that could be about to change.

Why Leeds Need a No.10

The departure of several key players and the inconsistent form of others, notably Brenden Aaronson, has left a vacuum in Leeds’ ability to generate attacking opportunities through the middle. Aaronson’s stats from last season in the Championship — 9 goals and 2 assists in 43 starts — paint a picture of a player who offers energy and commitment but lacks cutting-edge creativity.

For a team aiming to return to the Premier League, this won’t suffice. The Championship is a physically demanding league, and Leeds need a player capable of unlocking tight defenses, making incisive passes, and contributing directly to goals consistently. They need someone who can control the tempo and direction of their attacking play — a genuine No.10.

Enter Buendía and Hamer

Leeds United are reportedly zeroing in on two front-runners for the attacking midfield role: Emiliano Buendía of Aston Villa and Gustavo Hamer of Sheffield United. Both have been linked to the club for some time, and each brings a unique profile that would enhance Leeds’ midfield dynamics.

Emi Buendía: A Farke Favourite

Buendía is a name that will be familiar to Leeds fans — and to manager Daniel Farke, under whom the Argentine played at Norwich City. Buendía was a central figure in Norwich’s promotion campaigns and was widely regarded as one of the Championship’s standout players.

At Aston Villa, his opportunities have been limited, and injuries have played their part. Still, his technical quality, vision, and ability to link midfield and attack remain undiminished. He’s known for threading passes through tight spaces, creating chances out of nothing, and also contributing defensively with his pressing.

It’s reported that Villa have set a valuation of £20 million, though there’s speculation Leeds might try for a loan move. Back in January, Buendía wasn’t keen on dropping into the Championship. But with Villa potentially facing Profit and Sustainability Regulation (PSR) challenges, they may become more open to negotiations toward the end of the window.

Gustavo Hamer: The Sheffield Gem

While not as widely publicized as Buendía, Gustavo Hamer is just as intriguing an option. The Brazilian-born Dutch midfielder was a bright spot in a difficult season for Sheffield United. Known for his long-range shooting, aggressive pressing, and ability to carry the ball forward, Hamer fits the mold of a dynamic and industrious playmaker.

Interest in Hamer has surged following the departure of Chris Wilder as manager. That development has thrown Hamer’s future at Bramall Lane into doubt, and Leeds could pounce if the Blades become open to a deal.

Compared to Buendía, Hamer may offer a more box-to-box style of play, combining defensive grit with offensive flair. His signing could appeal to Farke’s pragmatic side, especially if Leeds want someone who can contribute in transitions and maintain high work-rate in both halves.

Strategic Patience from Leeds

According to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Leeds are not in a rush to finalize the No.10 deal. Speaking exclusively on the matter, he said:

“What we’re seeing in the No.10 role is that Leeds are able to be picky. There’s no need to jump in with both feet on a Hamer or a Buendía… I firmly believe Leeds will sign a No.10, and I also believe the front-runners are those two. It will be one of those, and we know Farke likes both of them.”

That strategic approach makes sense. With Premier League clubs potentially scrambling to adjust their squads late in the window due to financial pressures or surplus players, opportunities could arise for Leeds to negotiate favorable deals. Particularly if Villa need to offload players, waiting could be smart business.

What About Brenden Aaronson?

The American international’s future has come under scrutiny, with fans and analysts alike debating whether he has a long-term role in Farke’s plans. While Aaronson brings high energy and is tactically versatile — capable of playing as a No.10, box-to-box midfielder, or even on the wings — his offensive output leaves much to be desired.

In the Premier League (2022/23), he managed just 1 goal and 3 assists in 36 appearances. In the Championship last season, those numbers rose to 9 goals and 2 assists, but there’s still a sense that he’s not the creative fulcrum Leeds need to challenge for promotion.

That’s not to say he won’t be useful. His work rate and flexibility mean he’s likely to remain a squad player, but he may no longer be first choice in the attacking midfield role.

Weighing the Options

Each target comes with pros and cons.

Emi Buendía:

• Pros: Proven under Farke, Premier League experience, high creative ceiling.
• Cons: Injury history, high cost, reluctance to play in Championship.

Gustavo Hamer:

• Pros: Younger, versatile, robust and energetic, may be cheaper.
• Cons: Less proven at top-flight level, may take time to adapt to Farke’s style.

Both players have traits that would improve Leeds’ attack and midfield fluidity. The decision may come down to financial terms, availability, and how much risk the club is willing to take — either on a player returning from injury (Buendía) or one stepping up to greater responsibilities (Hamer).

What’s Next?

For now, Leeds appear to be playing the long game. The transfer window still has several weeks left, and the club seems determined to find the right No.10 — not just the first available one. Whether it’s Buendía, with his Premier League pedigree and past relationship with Farke, or Hamer, the industrious creator from Sheffield United, one thing is clear: Leeds are prioritizing quality over haste.

Expect movement later in the window, especially if Aston Villa or Sheffield United need to reshape their squads. For Leeds, the hunt for a true playmaker could be the key difference in turning a solid team into a promotion-winning one.

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