Leeds United are reportedly eyeing Issouf Sissokho as a potential addition to bolster their midfield in the upcoming months. The club, managed by Daniel Farke, is facing struggles after a disappointing loss to Burnley in the Premier League, compounded by a defeat to Tottenham before the international break, leaving them in 15th place with just eight points.
In a bid to strengthen their squad, Farke is looking to make additions, with Sissokho from Maccabi Tel Aviv emerging as a target for Leeds. Sissokho’s career began in Mali, where he honed his skills at local clubs before making the transition to Europe. He moved to French side Bordeaux in 2020 and later secured a permanent deal with the club before moving to Israeli Premier League outfit Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Noted for his strong passing ability, Sissokho could provide a valuable asset to Farke’s midfield, especially as Leeds face speculation regarding the manager’s future at the club.
In terms of potential complications, the acquisition of Sissokho may hinge on the ability to secure a work permit for the player. Non-UK or non-Irish players aiming to compete in English football typically require an International Sportsperson Visa under the UK Point Based System. This process often considers factors such as the player’s international experience, with automatic qualification tied to playing a certain percentage of matches for a top-ranked national team.
Sissokho’s limited international appearances for Mali’s U-20 team and absence from the senior national side could present a challenge in meeting the standard criteria for a work permit. In such cases, clubs like Leeds may need to explore alternative routes, such as the Elite Significant Contribution route, which allows for flexibility in assessing a player’s eligibility based on various considerations, potentially facilitating Sissokho’s participation if he were to join the club.
