adminLeeds United are enjoying a positive atmosphere as they sit fifth in the table with nine points from their opening five Premier League matches.
Several players have stepped up during the early stages of the campaign, while a number of the new arrivals have significantly improved the team’s overall quality, particularly in defence.
However, some members of the squad could be wondering where they fit in after their slow starts to the season, especially with the January transfer window now only a few months away.
Daniel Farke may have to be ruthless this winter and consider moving on a few players who currently appear to be making little impact on the pitch.
£15m Leeds player unsure when he will play next
Sean Longstaff joined Leeds last year with plenty of excitement, as the club believed they were bringing in a Premier League-proven midfielder for a reasonable fee.
He made an impressive start to life at Leeds and was among the first names on Daniel Farke’s team sheets during the opening months of the 2025/26 season. However, an injury forced him onto the sidelines.
By the time he recovered, Leeds had altered their system and were performing well. Longstaff was unable to properly reclaim his place in the starting XI at Elland Road.
A strong pre-season this summer created hopes that the midfielder would win back his position in the team. Instead, he has featured in just two Premier League games as a substitute, accumulating only 10 minutes.
He started both EFL Cup matches, but his display against Chelsea was concerning and appears to have further reduced his chances of returning to the starting lineup anytime soon.
Longstaff is still part of the squad and will have another opportunity at some stage. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether he is content with a limited role.
He could leave in January
Leeds’ pursuit of Shea Charles during the summer indicated that Daniel Farke believed there was room to strengthen his midfield despite already having several options available.
With Sean Longstaff struggling for playing time and at least three midfielders currently above him in the pecking order, his future at Elland Road has become uncertain.
The competition could become even stronger once Ilia Gruev is ready to return to the first-team picture following his recent Under-21 appearance.
There is a genuine possibility that Longstaff could leave Leeds during the winter window in search of consistent first-team football.
Leeds are likely to consider offers for him if they can bring in a suitable replacement for Farke during the winter window.
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