Leeds United have become strong contenders to sign former Borussia Dortmund star Julian Brandt as the German midfielder weighs up his options after leaving the Bundesliga. The 30-year-old is now a free agent, which has triggered a high-profile contest between the Yorkshire club and Dutch giants Ajax for his signature.
Battle starts for German playmaker
Leeds United are firmly in the race to secure Brandt’s services, with Sky Sports reporting that the club have now intensified their push to bring the former Borussia Dortmund man to Elland Road. The German international is available on a free transfer after his contract with the Bundesliga side ran out, making him one of the most prized creative players currently on the market. Although Ajax have also shown interest, the chance of a move to England seems to have given the Whites a clear advantage in talks.
The interest from West Yorkshire is far from just speculation. According to Sky Sports journalist Luca Bendoni, a three-year contract offer has already been put on the table for the midfielder. This is a major statement of intent from Leeds, who are aiming to add more technical quality as they prepare for a demanding campaign. It is understood that the player’s father and agent, Jurgen, visited the club’s Thorp Arch training ground earlier this month to inspect the facilities and discuss the project face to face.
Premier League appeal helps Leeds
Even with competition from the Eredivisie and possible interest from Italy, Brandt is reportedly leaning towards a move to the United Kingdom. After joining Borussia Dortmund from Bayer Leverkusen in 2019 for €25 million and lifting the DFB-Pokal in 2020–21, the 30-year-old is said to be intrigued by the prospect of testing himself in the Premier League.
Ajax remain in the picture as a realistic alternative, offering the attraction of European pedigree and a style of play that would suit Brandt’s creative instincts. The German playmaker is coming off a strong season with Dortmund, scoring 11 goals and supplying four assists in 41 appearances across all competitions last season. Still, Leeds are working relentlessly to make sure they win the race, fully aware that a player of his quality rarely becomes available without a transfer fee.
End of a chapter at Dortmund
Brandt’s exit from Borussia Dortmund brings to a close an important stage in his career, during which he established himself as one of the most reliable creators in German football. At Westfalenstadion, he was a regular presence in major matches, including the 2024 Champions League final against Real Madrid. His pedigree is beyond doubt, and he had earlier set records at Bayer Leverkusen, where he became the youngest player to reach 100 appearances for the club at only 21 years of age.
The midfielder has long been regarded as a precocious talent, and he also stands as the third-youngest player ever to reach 300 appearances in the German top flight. It is this kind of durability and experience that Leeds are desperate to add.
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Leeds continue summer rebuild with Brandt
If Leeds manage to land Brandt’s signature, he would become their third major signing of the summer after Harry Wilson and Tarik Muharemovic, with James Trafford expected to follow soon. The West Yorkshire club are eager to strengthen their squad as they look to build on last season, when they finished 14th in the Premier League, reached the FA Cup semi-finals, and exited in the second round of the League Cup.
