Leeds United could miss out on Japan defender Daiki Hashioka in the January transfer window.
According to Phil Hay, Premier League outfit Luton Town are now emerging as favourites to land the 24-year-old defender.
The Whites did register an interest in signing the player, and there were “strong links”. However, Leeds had concerns over an injury that he picked up in his last appearance.
“Strong links earlier between Leeds United and Japan right-back Daiki Hashioka. Luton Town firm favourites to sign him as it stands. Understanding is that Leeds had concerns over an injury picked up on his last appearance,” wrote Hay on X.
At the moment, Luton have held talks over a permanent transfer. Earlier Sacha Tavolieri claimed that the player is keen to move to Elland Road, but it seems that’s unlikely.
According to The Athletic, the Whites had approached to sign Hashioka, with Daniel Farke keen to strengthen his side in the January transfer window. It looks like they have pulled out of the race, and he would be joining Luton in a deal worth at least £1.7 million upfront.
Will Leeds sign a new defender?
Hashioka has been at Sint-Truiden since 2021, having initially joined on loan from Urawa Red Diamonds before the move was made permanent.
The defender has played 19 matches across all competitions this season, scoring two goals. He would have been a smart signing for the club. Instead, we have to watch and wait if Leeds make a move for any other fullback.
The right-back is one area that needs bolstering. Luke Ayling joined Middlesbrough on loan while Djede Spence left the club as well. Leeds have been linked with Liverpool’s Calvin Ramsay and Nottingham Forest’s Neco Williams, but they haven’t been able to broker a deal for them.
With Archie Gray picking up an injury in the recent League win over Norwich, Leeds are forced to use Jamie Shackleton as a make-shift right-back.
