Leeds United have identified Chelsea pair Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi as potential January transfer targets, as manager Daniel Farke looks to add top-flight experience to his squad for their relegation fight.
Leeds' Survival Bid Fuels Transfer Plans
The Yorkshire club, who were promoted as Championship winners last season, have hit a crucial run of form to climb away from immediate danger. A five-match unbeaten run, featuring a stunning 3-1 victory over Chelsea and a 3-3 draw with Liverpool, has lifted them to 16th place in the Premier League table.
With the season at its halfway point, a win against Liverpool at Anfield on New Year's Day would move Leeds nine points clear of the relegation zone. However, with rivals like West Ham, Nottingham Forest, and Bournemouth also planning January business, Farke is determined to strengthen.
The club's primary needs are understood to be a creative number ten, a mobile centre-forward, and a new centre-back, after missing out on Fulham's Harry Wilson last summer.
Chelsea's 'Bomb Squad' Duo in the Frame
According to reports, Leeds' search has led them to Stamford Bridge and two players deemed surplus to requirements by Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca. Both Sterling and Disasi have been training separately from the first-team squad.
French defender Axel Disasi, 27, has not played since failing to secure a transfer last summer, following a loan spell at Aston Villa in the second half of the previous season. While fit and attracting interest from clubs like Roma, complications with foreign loan rules may hinder a move abroad. It remains unclear if the former Monaco man would consider a switch to Elland Road.
For the forward role, Raheem Sterling presents a compelling, if complex, option. The 31-year-old England international's career has stalled since his 2022 move from Manchester City, including a difficult loan at Arsenal. However, his pedigree as a four-time Premier League champion and his versatility fit Leeds' stated criteria for a mobile and experienced attacker.
Financial and Personal Hurdles to Overcome
Any deal faces significant obstacles. Leeds are operating on a limited budget, reported to be around £25 million unless player sales are made. This financial constraint makes loan deals with options or obligations to buy far more likely than permanent transfers.
Furthermore, personal circumstances could be a factor. Sterling is said to be reluctant to leave London, where his family is settled. Both players would also lack match sharpness, having been exiled from Chelsea's matchday squads for an extended period, though the club believes their quality and experience could see them make an immediate impact.
The January window will test Leeds' ambition and negotiating skill as they aim to secure proven talent to secure their Premier League status for another season.
