Farke on the transfer window: Bahoya signed, no new striker and Rodon out for up to 10 weeks

What the manager said

Daniel Farke used his pre-match press conference to run through Leeds United's close-of-window activity, squad balance and a significant injury setback. He touched on incoming players, the decision not to sign a senior striker, departures, squad age profile and how Joe Rodon's hamstring problem changes options for the immediate weeks ahead.

Transfers and how they landed

Farke described Bahoya as a young prospect and said the club tried to bring in another offensive player but ultimately secured a promising winger instead.

Why there's no new senior striker

Farke acknowledged he would have liked one or two additional signings up front but explained the club must sign players who help the team and fit financial constraints. He said the current forward options are acceptable and he did not want to publicly suggest the squad was short in any position, as that could affect player morale. The manager also flagged that January remains a window to react if required.

Injury blow: Joe Rodon

Bad news came on Joe Rodon — a serious hamstring injury. Farke expects him to be out for eight to ten weeks. That increases pressure on the squad to cover centre-back minutes and could push wing-back James Justin into a central role if necessary. Farke said he hopes the upcoming international break will limit the number of club games Rodon misses and give time to plan for January if more reinforcements are needed.

Squad shape, departures and youth strategy

Farke described the window as a mix of bringing in younger players and keeping experienced squad members. He mentioned a deliberate spread of ages and said the club aimed to younger certain positions, including goalkeeper and centre-back. He accepted that selling or loaning players such as Wilfried Gnonto and others was difficult on a personal level but framed those moves as right for the players' game time and development.

Tarik Muharemovic was singled out as a signing the club felt confident about, though Farke cautioned it is early to heap too much praise after limited top-level minutes. He also praised the work of recruitment staff — naming Robbie Evans, Adam Underwood and Alex Davies — and said the board supported their financial decisions.

Looking to Brighton and beyond

On the trip to Brighton & Hove Albion, Farke said Brighton's identity and style remain intact despite new arrivals and called the club an impressive starter to the season. He noted Leeds have not won away at Brighton for a long time and that the team will travel respectfully. With the window closed, he welcomes fewer transfer distractions and expects staff to switch focus back to coaching and preparation.

Practical implications in short

• No immediate senior striker signing means existing forwards must cover until January or until Farke adjusts tactics.
• Rodon's 8–10 week absence forces short-term defensive reshaping and makes the January window more relevant for reinforcements.