Leeds United’s Mudryk Plan: Chelsea Talks Could Trigger Willy Gnonto Exit

The Whites have already added five players this summer, but Farke believes his squad needs further attacking reinforcements. Mudryk remains one of the options under consideration, with Leeds ready to reopen negotiations with Chelsea in an attempt to finally reach an agreement.

The potential deal could also have major consequences for Willy Gnonto, who has been cleared to leave Elland Road if Leeds can secure a replacement.

Leeds have already made approaches for Mudryk, but Chelsea have so far been reluctant to sanction a move because the Premier League side want assurances that the Ukrainian will receive regular playing time.

That has been difficult for Leeds to guarantee, although the Whites remain hopeful that another round of discussions can change Chelsea's position before the deadline.

Why Leeds Still Want Mykhailo Mudryk

Mudryk joined Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 in an initial £62 million deal, arriving in London with huge expectations.

His Chelsea career has failed to reach the levels anticipated, while his progress was further interrupted by a suspension connected to alleged doping offences dating back to December 2024. Those charges have since been dropped, allowing the winger to resume his career.

Chelsea are now looking for a loan destination where Mudryk can rebuild his form and play consistently.

Leeds face competition from Coventry City and Strasbourg, but Mudryk reportedly prefers a move to Elland Road.

The sticking point remains playing time.

Farke's current tactical setup does not necessarily guarantee the Ukrainian a regular starting role, which has been the main reason Chelsea have resisted Leeds' previous approaches.

Leeds Could Make a Third Attempt

Despite those difficulties, Leeds are not giving up.

The club are expected to resume discussions with Chelsea as the deadline approaches, with the hope that a third attempt can finally produce an agreement.

For Farke, the attraction is obvious: Mudryk would provide another option in a wide attacking position while giving Leeds additional pace and one-versus-one ability.

More importantly, his arrival could unlock another piece of Leeds' transfer business.

Mudryk In Could Mean Gnonto Out

A Mudryk deal would potentially pave the way for Willy Gnonto to leave Leeds.

The Italy international has become a popular figure at Elland Road during his four-year spell with the club, but his position has become less secure following Farke's tactical changes.

Leeds have increasingly favoured a system involving wing-backs rather than traditional wingers, leaving Gnonto facing increased competition for opportunities.

The 22-year-old has already held discussions with Fiorentina about a possible return to Serie A and is understood to be keen on the move.

Leeds have given Gnonto permission to leave, but there is an important condition: the club want to sign his replacement first.

That makes the Mudryk negotiations particularly important. The Ukrainian is not simply another potential addition—his arrival could directly determine whether Gnonto gets the green light to depart.

Leeds Miss Out on Conrad Harder

Leeds have also been working on potential attacking alternatives, including Conrad Harder.

The club had been informed of the RB Leipzig striker's availability and held discussions with his representatives. However, Leeds had not decided whether to make a formal move.

That hesitation appears to have cost them an opportunity.

Harder is now reportedly close to joining Strasbourg on loan with an option to buy, leaving Leeds looking elsewhere for attacking reinforcements.

Farke Wants More Signings Before Deadline

Farke has made it clear that he is not completely satisfied with the size of his squad.

Following Sunday's 1-1 draw with Brentford, the Leeds manager explained that while he was happy with his goalkeeping options, he wanted more depth among the outfield players.

“Happy on the goalkeeper position.

“Outfield, the group is not too big. Senior centre-backs and wing-backs, we don’t have the most.

“We will stay awake. One or two more additions would definitely be helpful. With the players I’ve got, I’m very happy.”

The comments suggest Leeds could still make multiple moves before the window shuts.

Jake O’Brien Could Also Be an Option

Another position Leeds may need to address is central defence.

The club lost Joe Rodon to a suspected hamstring injury during the draw with Brentford, potentially increasing the need for another centre-back.

One player Leeds could consider is Everton defender Jake O'Brien, whose physical profile could provide additional depth at the back.

That means Farke could have more than just the Mudryk situation to resolve before deadline day.

Leeds' Final-Day Puzzle

Leeds have already strengthened considerably this summer, bringing in James Trafford, Michael Zetterer, Tarik Muharemovic, Nico Elvedi and Harry Wilson.

But the final days of the window could still reshape the squad.

The immediate priority appears to be attacking depth, with Mudryk remaining a key target. If Leeds can convince Chelsea to approve the move, the deal could simultaneously provide Farke with a new winger and allow Gnonto to pursue his return to Italy.

And with a potential centre-back also required following Rodon's injury, Leeds could have a very busy final stretch before the transfer window closes.