The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Friday 16th January) EXCLUSIVE - Can Leeds defy FFP & land Larsen
EXCLUSIVE - Can Leeds defy FFP & land Larsen
Leeds United’s name has dominated transfer speculation this week, with £40m-rated Wolves star Jørgen Strand Larsen linked to Elland Road despite the club’s admitted financial constraints. While Leeds are officially “maxed out” until the summer due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions, they’ve somehow emerged as 2/1 favorites (from 33/1 just days before) to sign the Norwegian striker, surpassing far more affluent rivals. How is this possible? The Breakfast Debate caught up with leading transfer journalist Ekrem Konur to separate fact from fiction in the latest Leeds transfer drama.
Konur, a source renowned for his behind-the-scenes insight, confirmed that Leeds’ interest in Larsen, alongside Dynamo Kyiv striker Artem Dovbyk, isn’t a shot in the dark. “It’s a very valid point regarding the finances. You’re right that Leeds are operating under a tight budget this January due to PSR [Profitability and Sustainability Regulations],” he admitted. However, he quickly added that “creative” solutions are brewing in the corridors of power.
The key? Restructuring deals to bypass immediate financial barriers. For Dovbyk, Leeds are reportedly positioning a loan deal, with Roma eager to reduce their wage bill amid financial pressures of their own. But Larsen presents a trickier puzzle. At £40m, Wolves’ asking price vastly exceeds Leeds’ current budget, yet Konur revealed that “discussions are ongoing” around structured payments or performance-based installments. This could see Leeds offer a discounted upfront fee now, with the remainder paid in tranches tied to metrics like appearances, goals, or even league position. Such a model would let the club comply with FFP rules while acquiring a high-end striker.
“This isn’t unprecedented,” Konur explained. “Clubs in similar situations have used earn-out clauses, especially in January when budgets are lean. 49ers Enterprises are also open to hybrid loan-to-buy agreements, which could convert into a permanent transfer in the summer when funds are freed up.” The odds shorten by reason. Bookmakers aren’t just guessing; they’re responding to whispers of urgency from both Leeds and Wolves. While £40m seems outlandish now, a compromise exists if both clubs can align. And for Leeds fans, the appeal is clear: Larsen’s physicality, hold-up play, and Premier League pedigree could fill a void in Daniel Farke's attack.
Can Leeds defy the math and land Larsen? The answer hinges on whether Wolves can be convinced a partial upfront fee, plus future installments, trumps waiting for a full-price sale later. For Leeds, this isn’t just about signing a striker—it’s about proving they can outmaneuver financial limitations and stay competitive. As January tightens its grip, one thing’s certain: the race for Larsen is far from over, and Leeds aren’t playing with one hand tied behind their back.
"It’s a very valid point regarding the finances. "You’re right that Leeds is operating under a tight budget this January due to PSR considerations. However, the interest in Artem Dovbyk and Jorgen Strand Larsen stems from potential restructuring in their current clubs."
"For Dovbyk, it’s more about a loan opportunity as Roma looks to trim their wage bill. As for Larsen, while the £40m price tag seems high, there are discussions behind the scenes about structured payments or performance-based installments that could bridge the gap, especially if Wolves look to cash in quickly."
"My information suggests that Leeds is exploring 'creative' loan-to-buy deals to bypass the immediate lack of funds until the summer budget opens up. I’ll keep you posted as I hear more!"
What Buonanotte offers the Whites
Leeds Utd have signed Brighton playmaker Facundo Buonanotte on loan until the end of the season. Five months ago, the 21yo infamously stood Leeds up as a private jet waited at Shoreham Airport, to whisk him off to Thorp Arch for a medical. However, he never showed! The delay stemmed from interest from Chelsea; but after managing just 46 minutes of Premier League action for the Blues, Brighton have opted to recall the Argentine, reactivating their original plan to loan him to Leeds.
Buonanotte is a left-footed playmaker with a flair for versatility, and can slot into multiple roles. His preferred position is as a ‘No. 10,’ operating in the channels between the lines to exploit gaps in opposition defenses. He offers fluency and vision that Leeds have not seen since Georginio Rutter's departure eighteen months ago. His adaptability doesn’t end there: Buonanotte can also thrive as a right-winger, using his stronger left foot to cut inside and dictate play, and strike at goal.
Beyond positional flexibility, Buonanotte’s impact stretches from his ability to fill critical voids. With Jack Harrison now at Fiorentina, the Argentinian steps in as a creative linchpin, poised to unlock defenses for forwards like Nmecha and DCL. His set-piece expertise both direct and indirect, adds another layer to Leeds’ attack, while his presence creates competition for Brenden Aaronson, Noah Okafor, and Dan James. His blend of skill, adaptability, and experience could prove pivotal but will no doubt come under criticism from large sections of the Elland Road faithful for his actions last summer.