Revealed: Leeds l encouraged to agree James deal as move edges closer
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Credit: Imago Sat 25 April 2026 19:00, UK Leeds United are being encouraged to bid for Jordan James’ services as he is keen to stay in England following an impressive loan spell at Leicester City.James has been Leicester’s standout performer in a dismal season for the club that has culminated in relegation from the Championship.The 21-year-old won the second tier’s Young Player of the Season award last week, and is expected to leave parent club Rennes once more this summer.Leeds are keen on a move for the midfielder, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, and James wants to continue playing in either the Premier League or at a top Championship club.Daniel Farke will be accelerating Leeds’ summer transfer plans as top flight safety beckons, with James firmly on their radar as a potential signing. 🔄 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 Jordan James gives green light to Premier League move as Leeds circleJames has registered the second-most goal contributions of any midfielder in the Championship this season, only trailing Watford’s Imran Louza, who has also been linked with a Premier League switch.Whites boss Farke is keen to add more dynamism to his midfield options this summer, and an approach looks possible if they do remain in the top flight for next term.Appearances33Goals11Assists4Chances created53Touches in opposition box58Fouls won16Successful crosses39James’ 2025-26 Championship statisticsSpeaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “There’ll be clubs in England in the Premier League and Championship ready to offer him a move back to England rather than returning to France with Rennes.“I’m sure it’s something that James himself will be interested in doing as well.
For any clubs looking to add a young, dynamic midfielder who can score goals, James would tick a lot of boxes.”Leeds have made a U-turn on Ao Tanaka’s futureWhites midfielder Tanaka saw uncertainty cloud his future at the club at the turn of the year as he struggled to make an impact in Farke’s side.He has started Leeds’ last four games in all competitions, however, and played a key role in the upturn in form that has seen them move away from the bottom three and into an FA Cup semi-final.Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Tanaka is likely to stay at Leeds this summer after proving his worth to Farke in recent weeks.He could be joined by James in the Whites’ midfield next term, with the Wales international keen on a move to a Premier League side. 🚨 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Leeds United Insider Access Get the full story from Elland Road and Thorp Arch with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of West Yorkshire.