It has come out of nowhere but Brenden Aaronson will reportedly be a part of Leeds United’s squad for the 2024-25 campaign, and here is how Leeds could line-up with the American included.
Aaronson was one of the eight players that jumped ship last season using Victor Orta’s loan clause. It saw Leeds unable to bring in any cash for their exits, the players choosing to exit rather than rectify relegation.
The 23-year-old struggled in his first season at Leeds, scoring only one goal in 40. His form on loan at Union Berlin did not improve much either, scoring just two goals in his 38 games for the Bundesliga side.
But now, reports state that Aaronson will return to Leeds and be a part of the side that looks to secure a return to the Premier League next season despite the fan backlash following his choice to jump ship.
Fans have been scathing in their criticism of Aaronson, his lack of physicality and at the first opportunity he left Elland Road. But he is now due to return after holding talks with Leeds manager Daniel Farke.
How Leeds could line-up with Aaronson back in the side
So, Aaronson is back in the fold which comes as a huge surprise. It was only recently that Phil Hay told The Square Ball podcast that he did not envisage any of those sent out on loan to play for Leeds again.
Leeds have lacked a natural no.10 since Farke took over, with moves for Nadiem Amiri and Matt O’Riley failing last summer. Georginio Rutter and Joel Piroe have taken the mantle, but neither are natural 10’s.
Rutter has excelled in the role and may now be considered a 10, but beforehand the Frenchman was seen as a striker or a winger. Aaronson’s return may see Rutter revert to his previous Hoffenheim position.
Rutter reverts to Bundesliga position to accommodate Aaronson
Crysencio Summerville is expected to leave Leeds with near enough half the Premier League chasing his signature, while Inter Milan could make a move to bring Willy Gnonto back as he looks for the exit door.
So there is space out wide and Rutter could fill that void. While at Hoffenheim, Rutter largely played as a right winger allowing him to cut inside on his left and Farke envisaged that at Leeds when taking over.
Aaronson’s return could see Farke move Rutter to the right where he had originally planned to use him. Dan James on the left with USA star Aaronson behind either Joel Piroe, Patrick Bamford or Mateo Joseph.
