As the Whites look to stay in the top flight, a significant sell-on fee from a surprise transfer could provide manager Daniel Farke with unexpected resources for the winter window.
Leeds United is in for a surprising windfall
The Athletics have reported that West Ham are looking to sign a contract Charlie Cresswell as a priority defensive target for the upcoming January transfer window.
The 23-year-old centre-back, who left Leeds for French side Toulouse in July 2024, has impressed in Ligue 1, prompting the Hammers to open talks over a return to England.
A report from Leeds United News explains how a 15% sell-on clause that Leeds included as part of the deal during the summer sale cost just £3.8m. With Toulouse reportedly valuing the defender at around £25million, Leeds could earn £3.3million in January if the deal materialises.
Daniel Farke has turned around Leeds’ season with a change in formation
The potential financial injection comes at the perfect time and reflects the club’s fortunes on the pitch.
After a precarious start to the 2025/26 season, with pressure mounting on Daniel Farke, Leeds United dramatically turned their season around in December.
The catalyst for this revival was a bold tactical switch during the match against Manchester City at the end of November.
Farke switched from his traditional formation to a 3-5-2 formation, giving him more defensive solidity while unlocking the attacking potential of his attackers.
The change has led to an impressive unbeaten run, highlighted by a win against Chelsea, a tough draw against Liverpool and an impressive 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
Key to this revival has been the form of forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has breathed new life into the new system, and the leadership of captain Ethan Ampadu.
With the team pulling out of the relegation zone and potential cash coming in from the Cresswell deal, the prospects at Elland Road are suddenly much brighter heading into 2026.
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