Leeds United are now eyeing a shock move to appoint an attacking 4-3-3 manager who has been called “successful”, according to a recent report.
Daniel Farke’s Leeds future cast into doubt following promotion
After being one of the strongest teams in the Championship, the Whites confirmed their place in next season’s Premier League by winning promotion last week. Leeds bounced back from play-off disappointment last season and now have not only sealed promotion but could also win the Championship title.
"Skilful" 25 y/o Leeds ace could leave amid interest from various "parties"
He played in the Whites’ 6-0 win over Stoke City.
1 ByHenry JacksonApr 26, 2025
However, that might not be enough for Daniel Farke to keep his job, as it’s been claimed by the Daily Mail that the 49ers could be ready to sack Farke and bring in a replacement. It is reported that the hierarchy could be tempted to move on from Farke, and while a decision hasn’t been made yet, they have a list of names who could replace the German.
The 49ers believe that Farke may not be the man who can lead Leeds in the Premier League, given his record in that division when he was at Norwich City. José Mourinho has been talked about making a return to England and taking over at Elland Road, but that may be considered very ambitious by the newly promoted side.
Leeds eyeing shock move for Russell Martin
There is now a new name that is in the frame who could possibly replace Farke at Elland Road. According to Give Me Sport, Leeds are showing an interest in appointing Russell Martin as their new manager.
The report states that the Whites are considering a move to appoint the Scotsman as their next boss. The Championship side have sounded Martin out about returning to the dugout and what his vision is for the future which is part of the club’s plan to look at who they could appoint as their manager if they decide to move on from Farke.
However, Leeds are not the only team chasing Martin, as surprisingly, Southampton are contemplating bringing Martin back to St Mary’s. The Saints sacked the 39-year-old earlier this season, but he still has admirers at the club, and discussions have been had about trying to bring him back as they prepare for life back in the second tier.
A positive for Leeds, it’s claimed that Martin is unlikely to head back to Southampton after his recent sacking.
Martin
Farke
Games
16
49
Won
1
6
Drawn
2
8
Lost
13
35
Points
5
26
Points per game
0.31
0.53
A move for Martin, who likes to play an attacking 4-3-3 formation, by Leeds may come as a considerable shock to their supporters, especially when you consider that Martin has a worse Premier League record than Farke and both have been managers who have struggled in the top flight.
Despite Martin’s struggles in the Premier League and lack of wins, he is a manager who has been lauded as a “successful” coach, whose teams are a “joy to watch”, according to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
Martin may well be open to the idea of taking over at Leeds, given the size of the club and the fact they are a Premier League team, so it could be one to watch.