Leeds United chase Champions League veteran Julian Brandt as free-agent window opens

Leeds United are pursuing Julian Brandt as the Germany international prepares to leave Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer when his contract expires on June 30. The 30-year-old attacking midfielder, who has made 82 Champions League appearances and represented Germany at two World Cups, would arrive at Elland Road at no transfer cost if Leeds can fend off rival suitors.

Brandt rounds off his seven seasons in the Bundesliga having helped Dortmund finish second in the league, contributing seven goals and four assists in 29 appearances during the 2024-25 campaign. Despite that output, he was not included in Germany’s 2026 World Cup squad — a factor that may influence his next destination as he looks to reassert himself at the highest level.

Leeds have already explored the feasibility of a deal, and the club’s interest sits alongside reported approaches from Roma, Lazio and Galatasaray. The prospect of working under fellow German Daniel Farke and experiencing the Premier League for the first time is understood to be a genuine draw for Brandt.

Farke has been vocal about his need for a creative number 10 to complement Brenden Aaronson. Speaking last August, the Leeds head coach said: “There’s always room for more quality. Wingers who can work hard and are good against the ball, disciplined, wingers who are quick and good one vs one, wingers who can play like a 10. This would be a good solution for us.” With Aaronson entering the final year of his contract, that demand has grown more pressing.

Predominantly a number 10, Brandt has also featured across both flanks in more than 200 career appearances, giving Farke tactical flexibility. Last season he operated exclusively as the advanced midfielder behind Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy.

Leeds have already moved to address their right-wing position, completing the signing of Wales international Harry Wilson, 29, according to The Athletic. Adding Brandt would continue a shift in transfer philosophy at the club, which last season prioritised players approaching their prime rather than those with Brandt’s level of established pedigree. The 43-cap international would represent a significant step up in profile for a side preparing for life back in the Premier League.