Throughout this transfer window, the newly promoted sides have been conducting business to ensure their sides are sufficiently bolstered ahead of the upcoming season.
Yorkshire side Leeds are no exception to this, with their latest addition coming in the form of Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff, but what may he bring to the side?
Longstaff’s Career
Born in North Shields, the English midfielder has predominantly featured for Newcastle, aside from a spell with current League One side Blackpool in 2017/18.
He has played 212 matches for Newcastle, even featuring alongside brother Matty Longstaff.
Sean Longstaff has featured in both the EFL and the Premier League and has accumulated average match ratings of around 6.7 – 6.9. Although Longstaff has only registered 16 goals and 11 assists in that time frame, he has been appreciated by the Geordie faithful.
What May He Bring to Leeds?
Longstaff is a dependable midfielder who, although not particularly exciting, excels at tackling and passing.
The graft and the desire that the midfielder possesses may be a useful attribute to any newly promoted side, and win over the Elland Road faithful.
Longstaff has also featured heavily in the Premier League over recent years and will be able to bring experience and knowledge to the side.
At the age of 27, Longstaff also has room for growth, and for a fee of around £12 million, Leeds have secured a player who may stay with the club for the long term. Furthermore, the Englishman is an example of a signing who is unlikely to depart the club should they get relegated.
Should the negative outcome become a reality, he will be a dependable, top-level midfielder in the Championship.
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Where Will He Fit In?
Under German manager Daniel Farke, Leeds have often operated with two defensive midfielders, one of whom plays in a box-to-box role and the other, a deep-lying defensive outlet.
Throughout last season, midfielder Ao Tanaka impressed in midfield, therefore earning the faith of Leeds fans for the upcoming campaign. Longstaff should slot in comfortably next to him to create a hard-working partnership.
How Pivotal Is This Transfer Window for Leeds?
Leeds manager Daniel Farke, along with his current club, have experienced relegation from the Premier League on multiple occasions, reflecting the ever-growing gap between the top division and the Championship.
Therefore, the shopping list for newly promoted sides has to address multiple areas, however also allows for the side to gel and become a unit. Players like Sean Longstaff, bringing Premier League experience for a reasonable fee, may also be useful.
Although Leeds still have areas to address, the signing of Sean Longstaff is a sensible addition for the club as they look to remain in the top division. The experience that the player will bring and the graft will be useful for the side.
Elland Road is known for its intimidating atmosphere and demanding a huge effort from their players, and Leeds fans will be hoping that Longstaff lives up to expectations next season.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Bildbyran
Recording Date: 19.07.2025