Leeds United manager Daniel Farke did not dismiss the idea of the club signing a free agent when asked earlier in the week. The question arose during his pre-Sunderland press conference after knee injuries to midfielders Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev. Farke suggested that any decision would depend on the severity of Gruev’s injury, which he was unable to confirm at the time.
However, Leeds later confirmed that Gruev faces a lengthy recovery after scans revealed a damaged meniscus, requiring surgery. With Ampadu also out for 10 weeks, Leeds are left with only Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka as fit senior midfielders. This situation increases the likelihood of the club exploring the free agent market for reinforcements.
One possible target is Edouard Michut, who could be a viable option. Michut was previously linked with Leeds last summer but ended up signing for Adana Demirspor from PSG, making the move permanent in January. However, he terminated his contract in August due to unpaid wages, making him a free agent.
Though Michut wouldn’t directly replace either Ampadu or Gruev, he could add depth in the midfield. He could provide cover for Rothwell, while Tanaka and Charlie Crew compete for the holding midfield position. At just 21, Michut still has his best years ahead of him and has experience in the Championship, having played on loan for Sunderland in the 2022/23 season.
Leeds urgently need reinforcements as a busy schedule looms following the international break, and Michut appears to be one of the most promising free agent options available. Earlier in his career, Michut was highly regarded at PSG, with former teammate Marco Verratti praising his talent after a game in 2022, highlighting Michut’s potential despite his career not unfolding as expected so far.
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