Farke did not want Tanaka signing
Further rumours of a rift between Daniel Farke and the Leeds United hierarchy are gathering pace after an article in the German press yesterday revealed that Daniel Farke did not want to sign AO Tanaka.
Despite pursuing other options like Gustavo Hamer and Dejan Ljubicic, Leeds eventually settled for Tanaka, splashing out almost £4m on his deadline day signature. After lost Summerville, Rutter, Gray and Kamara, it wouldn’t be unreasonable for Farke to expect a ‘marquee’ signing to turn up at Thorp Arch, but it was not meant to be. According to German publication ‘ De Rheinische Post’, Farke was disappointed with Tanaka’s arrival – only time will tell whether the Japanese International ith 27 caps. can prove his gaffer wrong!
Tanaka previously applied his trade with Düsseldorf in the second tier of German football, showcasing his many talents, where he provided 10 goals and eight assists in 95 appearances. His impressive record mirrors his time at Kawasaki Frontale, where he secured 10 goals and nine assists in 94 matches, clinching three J League titles and multiple domestic cups.
Could Rothwell get recalled in January
It has been suggested that Bournemouth are already closely monitoring the situation of midfielder Joe Rothwell, who is currently on loan at Elland Road.
The 29 year old was deemed surplus to requirements on the South Coast, and was sent to West Yorkshire to get first team action. His appearances thus far, both in pre-season and in the league have not disappointed. His link up play, and vision has been positive, and his set-piece play is better than anyone currently on our books.
Despite this, Tanaka’s arrival may have pushed the former Manchester Utd rookie further down the pecking order making first team opportunities even harder to come by. Daniel Farke already has Ampadu (, Crew) and Gruev at his disposal. If Leeds fail to utilise his services, the Cherries have the right to recall him in January.
