Harry Wilson joins Leeds on free transfer as Fulham lose top scorer and manager

Harry Wilson is set to leave Fulham and join Leeds United on a free transfer, with the Wales international agreeing a long-term deal at Elland Road that will make him Daniel Farke’s first summer signing, subject to a medical and other formalities.

The move ends a pursuit that stretches back to last summer’s transfer window, when Leeds first attempted to sign the former Liverpool winger. Wilson ultimately stayed at Craven Cottage for one more season, going on to post a career-best 10 Premier League goals — but that form has now attracted a successful bid from the Championship side rather than keeping him in the top flight.

Fulham had hoped to retain Wilson and were not short of competition, with Aston Villa and Everton also monitoring his situation. Instead, the club now face a significant rebuild after losing both of their leading scorers. Raul Jimenez, who contributed nine Premier League goals last season, has returned to Wolves, while Wilson’s 10 depart with him to West Yorkshire.

The managerial picture at Craven Cottage is equally unsettled. Marco Silva, who guided Fulham through another solid Premier League campaign, opted not to renew his contract and has since taken charge of Benfica, leaving the club to search for his successor at the same time as reshaping the squad.

For Leeds, Wilson’s arrival addresses a clear need for goals and creativity as they prepare for another Championship season with promotion ambitions. The club are also tracking Julian Brandt, the Germany international who is available on a free transfer after departing Borussia Dortmund, though they face considerable competition for his signature.