The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Tuesday 29th July) - Leeds Could Target Jonathan Rowe Following Paixão’s Marseille Move

Good Morning. It's Tuesday 29th July, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...

Leeds Could Target Jonathan Rowe Following Paixão’s Marseille Move

Leeds United loo to have missed out on signing Igor Paixão, with Olympique de Marseille securing the winger from Feyenoord on a five-year deal worth €35 million. Despite Leeds reportedly offering better financial terms and the example of former player Raphinha to aid their case, Paixão’s preference for Marseille and the promise of European football proved decisive. It seems like Leeds were used as leverage by Feyenoord to push Marseille into matching their valuation.

With Igor Paixão’s destination now looking like the Côte Bleue, Leeds could see an opening to pursue Jonathan Rowe as a key attacking option. The move might be made possible by Marseille’s arrival of Paixão, who fills a similar role. Rowe has attracted interest from clubs including AS Roma, Atalanta, Bournemouth, and Leeds, with Marseille reportedly valuing him at around €20 million.

Leeds manager Daniel Farke is familiar with Rowe, having overseen the player’s development and first professional contract during his time at Norwich. This connection could help Leeds if they decide to make a move, offering a potential smart alternative to strengthen the left wing position after missing out on Paixão as they prepare for their Premier League return. It could also free up more funds to splash the cash on a proven striker.

Spanish Clubs Circle as Joseph Pushes for Exit

Mateo Joseph continues to attract strong interest from Spain after refusing to join Leeds United’s pre-season tour in Germany. Girona FC are pushing to sign the 21-year-old on loan as a potential replacement for Bojan Miovski, while La Liga rivals Getafe have now also submitted an offer, according to L’Esportiu. Real Betis remain in the race but have already seen a £10 million bid rejected in January and a recent loan approach turned down. All three clubs are reportedly unwilling to meet Leeds’ €14 million valuation, though Joseph’s contract runs until 2028 and Leeds remain firm that any deal must reflect his value.

Joseph made 41 appearances last season, scoring 3 goals and providing 4 assists, and is eager to return to Spain this summer. His stance has prompted a shift in tone from manager Daniel Farke, who initially insisted the forward was not for sale but has since acknowledged that a move could happen if Leeds’ price is met. With both Joe Gelhardt and Patrick Bamford out of favour and the club chasing Rodrigo Muniz from Fulham, Leeds are aware that losing Joseph would further weaken their striking options. As the transfer deadline approaches, pressure is mounting for a resolution.

Schmidt Nears Bremen Exit After Frustrating Leeds Spell

Werder Bremen are poised to bolster their squad with another signing from the Whites. According to a report from Patrick Berger of Sky Germany, the Bundesliga club has reached an agreement in principle for the services of Isaac Schmidt. The deal for the Swiss international is structured as a season-long loan, although there has been no confirmation on whether the agreement includes an option for Werder Bremen to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.

Schmidt will be following a familiar path to Germany. He is set to join Leeds teammate Max Wöber, who also made the switch to the four-time Bundesliga champions earlier this month on a similar loan deal that notably includes an option to buy. For Schmidt, the motivation behind the move is clear, securing first-team football. With the World Cup on the horizon, the versatile 25yo wants to keep his international ambitions alive. He needs minutes under his belt, game time he won't necessarily get at Elland Road next season.

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