Leeds boss Farke reveals return of key man and discusses transfer plans

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has revealed that Noah Okafor’s return is imminent after the conclusion of their pre-season tour in the US.

The 26-year-old did not travel to the US with the rest of the squad for pre-season, due to his involvement in the World Cup with Switzerland.

Farke explained: “We know there’s lots of work to do in building our fitness levels and our flexibility that we want in building our squad.

“Also to get some key players back. Noah Okafor will join us from next week, back in training.”

Leeds have already secured the services of Harry Wilson ahead of next season. The Welshman enjoyed a phenomenal campaign with Fulham last term, and Leeds are also continuing in their efforts to sign goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City.

“Also, we’re still in the market for some signings,” Farke insisted. “Obviously, it’s not done. The work is not done, and all the others who are on a good path have to make sure we go to the next yards.

“If we stop right now and think, okay, everything is already prepared, it won’t be good enough. We have to keep going.

“We are far away from staying not humble, from being over the moon or too big time anyhow.”

Leeds have three more pre-season fixtures before kicking off the Premier League season against Nottingham Forest.

They concluded their pre-season tour with a 4-2 victory over Liverpool. The result meant they finished first in the Premier League’s US Summer Series. However, the Whites were not rewarded with a trophy.

“We won this tournament and actually I want the trophy,” joked Farke. “Because especially in the US you normally get the trophy for everything, but no trophy is around.

“So for that, I am a bit annoyed. But all jokes aside, there couldn’t be a better ending of this tour.”