Leeds United entered the January transfer window with a sense of contentment regarding their squad strength, feeling they did not urgently require reinforcements. Daniel Farke, the manager, aimed to bolster the full-back positions, particularly focusing on the left side. However, despite initial intentions, Leeds ended up making a key acquisition on the right flank.
Following the departures of Djed Spence and Luke Ayling, Leeds secured the services of Connor Roberts from Burnley on deadline day to fill the void, bringing him in on a loan deal for the remainder of the season.
While the club was rumored to be interested in multiple left-backs, the impressive performances and fitness of Junior Firpo made additional recruitment unnecessary in that position. Among the speculated targets was Josh Doig, who had attracted attention from clubs like Leeds, Marseille, and Sassuolo. Eventually, Doig ended up joining Sassuolo after a prospective move to Marseille fell through.
Doig’s decision to sign with Sassuolo over Leeds may come back to haunt him. Despite making eight appearances since his arrival, it was only recently that he experienced his first victory with the team. Sassuolo endured a difficult start with six losses in seven games, conceding 19 goals, including a defeat against Doig’s former club, Verona.
In a crucial clash against fellow relegation candidates Frosinone, Sassuolo managed to secure a 1-0 win, offering a glimmer of hope in their fight for survival. However, they remain perilously positioned in 19th place, two points away from safety with only ten matches remaining. Joining Leeds could have potentially provided Doig with a more favorable opportunity to compete in the Premier League next season.
Leeds United currently occupy a promising position in the Championship, sitting in second place and poised for a return to the Premier League at the end of the season if they maintain their impressive form.
