RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesLeeds United Are Back For £42.7m Winger: Should They Pay The Exact Price?
Leeds United have gone back into the market for Igor Paixao after losing the race for Julian Brandt, who chose Ajax instead. According to MOT Leeds News, quoting Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna , Daniel Farke’s side have already reopened talks with the Brazilian winger’s representatives as they continue their search for greater attacking quality.
Leeds United revive interest after Brandt disappointment
Paixao stands third on Leeds’ shortlist of wide forwards. Even so, negotiations won’t be straightforward. Leeds United reportedly value the Marseille player at around £29.9 million, while owner Frank McCourt wants close to €50 million, or roughly £42.7 million, before approving any sale.
That gap presents an obvious obstacle. Leeds United are already pressing ahead with a £45 million move for goalkeeper James Trafford , leaving little room for another premium signing unless outgoing transfers generate fresh funds. Should Marseille refuse to soften their stance, Leeds are expected to shift attention towards cheaper names placed higher on their shortlist rather than forcing an expensive agreement.
T4O take: Why Leeds United need Paixao
ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – FEBRUARY 15: Igor Paixao of Feyenoord celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 Knockout Round Play-offs First Leg match between Feyenoord and AS Roma at Feyenoord Stadium on February 15, 2024 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Paixao’s output last season explains why Leeds have revived their interest. Across 42 appearances in all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign, the Brazilian collected 12 goals and seven assists. Ligue 1 accounted for six goals and five assists from 30 matches, while he added four goals in eight Champions League appearances against far stronger opposition.
Farke’s squad still lacks genuine width. Harry Wilson arrived without a transfer fee, yet Leeds need another winger capable of unsettling defenders every week. Noah Okafor offers quality, though the depth behind him looks thin after Facundo Buonanotte’s loan ended and Brandt slipped away. Paixao brings pace, directness and proven end product.
Why Leeds United cannot ignore the financial reality
T4O believes Leeds should keep negotiating because Paixao answers a clear football problem. Paying Marseille’s full asking price, though, would be a mistake.
Reports have linked Marseille’s willingness to sell with ongoing financial pressure, giving Leeds United more leverage than the current figures suggest. There’s little sense in rushing into a €50 million deal when the French side may eventually need to compromise.
A fee between €32 million and €35 million feels far closer to the player’s current market value. Leeds United have already committed major money to strengthening their defence and are preparing another sizeable payment for Trafford. Overspending on one winger would squeeze flexibility across the rest of the squad. From T4O’s perspective, Paixao deserves serious interest, but smart recruitment means knowing exactly where the limit sits and refusing to cross it.
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