Leeds United extend incredible Ao Tanaka record, this proves why they simply cannot sell him
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The Japan international has found regular gametime hard to come by this season, but he has now started in each of his team’s last four league outings.Leeds want to improve their squad again this summer, and that looks set to create a danger of them potentially losing Tanaka, but after the latest evidence, they should be doing everything they can to keep him. 🔄 Leeds United Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Elland Road boardroom. VISIT THE LEEDS TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Ao Tanaka importance laid bare by Premier League one-offTanaka was a central figure in Leeds’ promotion from the Championship last term, and on the face of things, his level of importance has slipped drastically in the Premier League.
The additions of Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff last summer have meant that the 27-year-old has been limited to just 11 starts in the league, but dig a little deeper, and it is clear to see that he has held just as much value as ever. That incredible statistic has now been extended up to 10 league wins after Friday night’s three points, with Tanaka starting at Elland Road once again.
Leeds United have nine wins in the Premier League this season.Of this, exactly one of them has come without Ao Tanaka (25), even though the Japanese midfielder has only played 24 games.Underrated for #LUFC and needs to start in a key clash against Burnley today. pic.twitter.com/ORcE3fRSGU— Charles Erb (@charlescerb) May 1, 2026 View Tweet However, the fact that his team have desperately struggled to win without him playing some sort of role during the 90 minutes is ample evidence alone that he simply cannot be sold this summer.Tanaka changes his stance after Anton Stach injury at LeedsFootball Insider revealed last month that Tanaka may now be open to staying at Leeds, after Stach’s recent injury lay-off has seen a spike in his gametime. Farke has clearly been impressed by the level that he has reached, as he has continued to find a place for him in the starting XI even now that Stach has returned.