Godwin ObajeLeeds United Eye Buendia or Hamer to Fill No.10 Role Ahead of Premier League Return
Leeds United are weighing up a move for either Emiliano Buendia or Gustavo Hamer as they look to strengthen their attacking midfield options ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.
With Daniel Farke’s side preparing for their first top-flight season in three years, the club is prioritising smart recruitment to avoid the fate that has befallen many recently promoted teams. Adding top-flight pedigree to their midfield appears central to those plans.
According to TBR Football, Leeds have set their sights on recruiting a quality No.10, with both Buendia and Hamer emerging as prime targets. Buendia, who previously worked with Farke at Norwich City, remains a player the Leeds boss is reportedly keen to reunite with.
The Argentine spent the second half of last season on loan at Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen, and although the German club were believed to have a £17 million buy option, no permanent move has yet been confirmed. He signed a new contract with Aston Villa in January, keeping him at Villa Park until 2027 – a deal that hands Unai Emery’s side a strong negotiating position.
However, Buendia’s recent injury record could complicate matters. The 28-year-old missed the entire 2023/24 campaign due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury, and although he returned to action this year, his impact was limited – scoring once and failing to register an assist in 19 appearances for Villa.
That has led Leeds to consider Hamer as a more viable and cost-effective alternative. The Coventry City midfielder was a standout performer in the Championship last season and was recently crowned the division’s Player of the Year.
talkSPORT reports that Hamer is expected to leave this summer and is thought to be more open to a move to Elland Road than Buendia. His form has certainly caught the eye, with nine goals and seven assists in 41 appearances, along with 11 big chances created and an xG of 5.66, according to Sofascore.
If Leeds are forced to choose between the two, Hamer’s form, fitness and price tag may tip the balance in his favour. An agreement for either player could spell the end of Brendan Aaronson’s time at Elland Road, with his future reportedly in doubt.
One fan, Malcolm, wrote: “Think Hamer would be a better option – was amazing last season. Need to move faster in the quality links, and leave the veterans alone!”
With pre-season looming and Farke determined to build a squad capable of competing in the Premier League, decisive action in the transfer market could be the difference between consolidation and another painful relegation scrap. Whether that involves rekindling an old partnership with Buendia or investing in Hamer’s momentum remains to be seen.
Godwin Obaje
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