Ao Tanaka is undergoing his medical as he’s set to seal a permanent transfer to Leeds United, according to the Athletic.
The news outlet reported on 29 August that work is continuing to bring the Japan international from Fortuna Dusseldorf.
The Whites are in the market for a new number 10 after Georginio Rutter departed for Brighton.
Daniel Farke can bring the best out of Ao Tanaka at Leeds United
Daniel Farke can maximise Tanaka’s potential at Elland Road by leveraging his tactical acumen to fit the Japan international’s versatile midfield skills into the team’s system.
Given the 25-year-old’s ability to play in various midfield roles, Farke could deploy him as a box-to-box midfielder, allowing him to contribute both defensively and offensively.
This role would utilise Tanaka’s stamina and passing range, enabling him to link defence with attack effectively.
Farke’s emphasis on possession-based football could see Tanaka thrive, especially if positioned to orchestrate play from deeper areas or as an advanced playmaker.
Integrating him into set-piece routines could also exploit his vision and delivery.Additionally, Farke should focus on building a partnership between Tanaka and the likes of Dan James, Joel Piroe and Wilfried Gnonto, encouraging him to make late runs into the box, and capitalising on his goal-scoring ability from midfield.