Leeds United Begin Summer Rebuild with Nmecha Signing as Muniz Links Persist
Leeds United have officially opened their summer transfer business by landing striker Lukas Nmecha on a free transfer. The 26-year-old becomes Daniel Farke’s first signing of 2024 and arrives at a crucial time for the club’s attacking setup.
With reports suggesting Mateo Joseph is close to joining Real Betis in a deal worth around £8.5 million—joining Junior Firpo, who is also set for a free transfer to the Spanish side—Nmecha’s arrival provides immediate reinforcement in a department that’s currently lacking depth.
However, Nmecha may not be the only forward joining the Whites this summer. Leeds remain heavily linked with Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, who impressed last season with eight Premier League goals in 33 appearances and boasted a better goals-per-minute ratio than Erling Haaland.
Muniz Valuation Could Be a Sticking Point
Despite the interest, Fulham’s steep £50 million valuation of the 24-year-old Brazilian has complicated Leeds’ pursuit. Former Premier League midfielder and pundit Lee Hendrie believes Muniz would be a great fit for Leeds but admits the fee may be prohibitive.
“He’s got goals in him and suits the way Leeds play, but £50 million is a big ask,” Hendrie told Football League World. “If the price could drop to somewhere between £35–40 million, then I could see Leeds making a serious move.”
Fulham Fans Dismiss Transfer Talk
While Muniz often came off the bench under Marco Silva last season, Fulham fans appear confident he’s not going anywhere this summer. Many laughed off Leeds’ reported interest on social media, especially as Muniz looks poised to play a bigger role for the Cottagers in 2024/25.
Given Muniz’s age and growing Premier League experience, Fulham’s high valuation reflects their desire to keep him as a key part of their future. For Leeds, the striker seems like an ambitious target—and unless Fulham soften their stance, it may remain out of reach.
What’s Next for Leeds?
Farke is expected to continue hunting for more striking options, especially with Joseph’s departure looking increasingly likely. As the Nmecha deal proved, Leeds may yet have surprises up their sleeve, with several targets possibly still flying under the radar.
With the transfer window just heating up, fans should expect more movement in the coming weeks as the club builds for a strong return to the Premier League.
