Julian Brandt’s next chapter is set to be written in England, not Italy — and Leeds United appear to be leading the race for one of the most exciting free agents on the market this summer.
Serie A Giants Left Empty-Handed
Both Juventus and Roma had circled Brandt hard, drawn by the obvious appeal of a proven, top-level performer with more than 500 senior appearances available without a transfer fee attached. But reports now confirm the Bianconeri have been cut out of the race entirely, with Brandt’s future firmly pointing toward the Premier League instead — the latest example of Juventus being outmaneuvered in the transfer market this summer while operating under tighter financial constraints.
Seven Years at Dortmund Come to an End
Brandt’s departure brings a productive era to a close. Across seven seasons at Signal Iduna Park, the 30-year-old racked up an impressive 57 goals and 70 assists in 307 appearances, established himself as a genuine Bundesliga mainstay, and earned 48 caps for Germany along the way, including 85 Champions League appearances. Managing director Lars Ricken confirmed the split back in March, with both sides agreeing a change was needed heading into next season.
Leeds Lead the Chase
Leeds have been quietly working on this deal since mid-June, making initial contact with Brandt’s camp shortly after his Dortmund exit was confirmed. According to reporter Gianluca Di Marzio, several Premier League clubs have now made “concrete moves” for the German international, but Leeds appear to hold a genuine advantage in the race, having built an early relationship with his representatives.
It’s easy to see the appeal from Leeds’ side. A free transfer means no negotiating with a selling club and no fee to write off — the only real costs are wages, agent fees, and a signing bonus. For a club looking to add proven quality without breaking the bank, landing a player of Brandt’s caliber and experience represents a genuine coup.
A Statement Summer at Elland Road
This pursuit fits neatly into what’s already shaping up as an ambitious rebuild under Daniel Farke. Leeds have already beaten out several rivals to sign Wales international Harry Wilson on a free transfer following his Fulham exit, and they’re also closing in on a £34 million deal for Sassuolo centre-back Tarik Muharemović — set to become the club’s highest-paid player once his five-year contract is finalized.
Adding Brandt to that list would represent another eye-catching, cost-effective addition as Farke continues reshaping his squad with both attacking flair and defensive steel ahead of the new season.
What Brandt Brings to the Table
Brandt remains a genuinely versatile attacking threat, comfortable operating through the middle or across the front line. He scored seven goals and added four assists in the Bundesliga last season alone, and former Dortmund teammate Nico Schlotterbeck has previously described him as “outstanding” — high praise from someone who played alongside him for years. At 30, Brandt sits right in his prime, and a first move outside Germany could be exactly the fresh challenge he’s been searching for.
Not a Done Deal Yet
Leeds aren’t the only side circling, and Champions League interest reportedly remains in the mix, meaning Farke’s side will need to move decisively to get this over the line. Still, with Juventus and Roma now out of the picture and Brandt’s preference apparently leaning firmly toward English football, Leeds look better positioned than most to land one of this summer’s most sought-after free agents.
Leeds fans, how big would landing Brandt be for Farke’s rebuild? Let us know your thoughts below.
