Leeds United confront €35m price tag for Demirović

Leeds United Face a €35m demand for 28‑year‑old striker Ermedin Demirović as they look to replace the departing goal‑scorer and bolster Daniel Farke’s pressing system, with the Club Justify Spending decision after splashing £40m on James Trafford and around £34m on Tarik Muharemović this summer.

The club kept Demirović among its priority targets after the summer window closed without an offer, which cited an update from Tutto Juve. Leeds have struggled for a reliable centre‑forward, and Farke’s aggressive style demands a forward who can press high and create space for wide players.

Player profile and form

Demirović has opened the 2026/27 campaign with four goals in five appearances, including a hat‑trick against Viking as Stuttgart won 3‑1 in the Champions League. He arrived at VfB Stuttgart in 2024 and has amassed 36 goals and 11 assists from 92 matches, while last season he recorded 15 goals and five assists.

He can operate as a centre‑forward or second striker, dropping into half‑spaces to combine quickly before attacking the box. His movement pulls centre‑backs out, creating room for wingers, and his pressing aligns with Farke’s high‑intensity approach, allowing Leeds to chase defenders and trigger pressure up the pitch.

Financial and market considerations

Stuttgart have set a minimum price of €35 million for the striker, who is contracted until 2028, while Transfermarkt values him at €22 million. Juventus, AC Milan and Galatasaray have also shown interest, giving the German club further reason to hold firm on the fee.

Leeds could instead target younger Championship forwards for lower fees, preserving the financial flexibility after their recent £40m and £34m signings. The lack of resale upside on a 28‑year‑old at €35m raises questions about the Club’s long‑term investment strategy.

With several European clubs monitoring Demirović, Leeds must decide whether the immediate attacking boost outweighs the financial burden, as the deadline for the summer window has already passed and the player remains a priority target for the club.