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Ao Tanaka: Leeds United make new transfer plan after decision

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

March 7, 2026

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Leeds United have no plans to sanction an exit for Ao Tanaka this summer despite his lack of recent game time under Daniel Farke.

Tanaka was a key man for Leeds as they won promotion to the Premier League last season, but has struggled to make a consistent impact in the top flight so far.

The Japan international impressed at the start of this term, but has been dropped from the Whites’ starting eleven in recent weeks by Daniel Farke after his switch to a 3-4-2-1 formation.

There is uncertainty looming around Tanaka’s future at Elland Road, but as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, they have no plans to let him leave as it stands.

Leeds are set for a busy summer window, no matter the league they are in, but Tanaka is being backed to win his place in Farke’s eleven back soon.

Ao Tanaka set for Leeds summer stay despite recent struggles

Tanaka registered five goals and two assists in 43 Championship appearances last season, but has only managed to make seven league starts up to now in the 2025-26 campaign.

He has failed to come off the bench in any of their last six top-flight matches, with just 63 minutes from the bench in league games since the turn of the year, but is not set to leave this summer as he is still viewed as an important part of Farke’s squad.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “It’ll be an interesting one. I still think he’s got a role to play for Leeds.

“He’s obviously been on the bench for the last six Premier League games. Leeds have got this starting eleven that they’re sticking with right now, with Stach, Ampadu and Gruev in midfield.

“He’s obviously struggled for appearances in recent weeks, but has still made 22 appearances in all competitions and popped up with three goals.

“I don’t think Leeds would be pushing him out the door right now. He’s still a important squad player for the club and I’m sure he will remain that until the end of the season as well.”

Anton Stach’s future could dictate Tanaka’s next steps

There is tough competition for places in Leeds’ midfield right now, with Stach a particular standout and the man who has effectively taken Tanaka’s spot in the eleven since joining from Hoffenheim last summer.

He has registered four goals and three assists in 24 top-flight matches this season, and is fourth among every player in the division for chances created, with 52.

The German midfielder has been linked away from Elland Road, but sources have told Football Insider that Leeds are determined to keep Stach beyond this summer.

If he does depart, then a spot in Farke’s team could open up for Tanaka ahead of next season, but if not, then the Japan midfielder may well be better off seeking an exit.

The post Ao Tanaka: Leeds United make new transfer plan after decision appeared first on Football Insider.

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