Leeds United Target £20m Everton Ace as January Harry Wilson Alternative

Leeds United boss Daniel Farke will have the opportunity to freshen up his squad when the January transfer window opens, with reinforcements increasingly viewed as necessary rather than optional.

The Whites appear to have found their rhythm in recent weeks under the German’s guidance. A 1-1 draw away at Sunderland last time out extended a steady run of form, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin continuing to impress at the sharp end. After 18 league fixtures, Leeds sit 16th in the table, seven points clear of the relegation zone, having carved out a small but valuable cushion over the bottom three.

Survival remains the overriding objective following promotion from the Championship last season, but the upcoming fixture list offers little respite. A daunting trip to Anfield on New Year’s Day to face Liverpool is followed by a home meeting with Manchester United, underlining the need for added quality and depth.

January could therefore prove pivotal. Leeds are expected to be active in the market, particularly in attacking areas, where competition remains thin. Farke explored options in the summer, notably with an approach for Fulham winger Harry Wilson, though no deal was struck and the Welshman has since become integral to Marco Silva’s side at Craven Cottage.

With Wilson now seemingly out of reach, attention may turn elsewhere. Everton winger Dwight McNeil is a name that fits the profile Leeds were previously seeking. Journalist Alan Nixon reported back in November that McNeil faces an uncertain future at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, with Everton open to offers in the region of £20million.

Like Wilson, McNeil is left-footed and comfortable operating on either flank. His current contract runs until June 2027, leaving Everton with a decision to make. With David Moyes reshaping his squad, a sizeable bid could tempt the Toffees into cashing in rather than allowing his value to diminish.

For Leeds, McNeil would represent a calculated gamble worth taking. He is an established Premier League performer with experience few in Farke’s squad can match. The Rochdale-born winger came through Manchester United’s academy before making his name at Burnley, where he became a regular fixture over several seasons.

Since moving to Everton, he has delivered 15 goals in 112 appearances, though his influence has waned since Moyes’ arrival. A fresh start at Elland Road could reignite his career, while providing Leeds with creativity, balance and proven top-flight pedigree at a crucial stage of the campaign.