Ao Tanaka could stay at Leeds United beyond the summer transfer window amid speculation surrounding his future at the club.
Daniel Farke has been using Ao Tanaka differently of late, which could persuade the Japanese international to stay beyond the summer. As per Football Insider, Leeds United are expected to keep hold of the 27-year-old disgruntled midfielder amid speculation over his future.
Ao Tanaka has played a key role in Leeds United’s last few games, but this opportunity has come due to Anton Stach’s injury. The latter is not expected to play at least until May, which could hand the Japanese midfielder a run of games where he can prove his talent to Daniel Farke.
There has been speculation surrounding Tanaka’s future at the club, with suggestions that he could push for an exit. The 27-year-old has been in a disgruntled mood of late due to a lack of game time, something he wanted right ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With Stach injured, the player is expected to get a run of games, as well as the chance to revisit his thinking about the future. As such, Leeds United are not planning on parting ways with Tanaka, as Farke considers him key to the club’s plans heading into the new season.
Tanaka’s contract is only until 2028, which at the moment gives Leeds United plenty of power in negotiations. Should they plan on selling, the club may demand significantly more for the midfielder, which could be a sticking point for any potential move.
Is there interest in Ao Tanaka?
Leeds United may offer him a good enough role to convince him to stay, although there are some rumours around the market, including the surprise interest from Manchester United, as reported recently. Whether or not the Red Devils are serious about signing him remains a question, but it looks more speculative than anything concrete.
Other teams from within the Premier League are also keen on Tanaka, and the midfielder might prefer to stay put in the division rather than moving abroad. For now, Leeds United are primed to keep hold of the midfielder beyond the summer, as Farke will be eager to keep him in the squad rather than letting him leave.
