Leeds United are reportedly in pole position to secure the signing of Harry Wilson on a free transfer, with Aston Villa facing an uphill battle to lure the Fulham winger away from Elland Road.
The Welsh international is expected to become one of the most sought-after free agents of the summer when his Fulham contract expires at the end of the month.
Leeds came close to signing Wilson last year before Fulham blocked a move on deadline day, and it now appears Daniel Farke's side are ready to revisit their interest.
Leeds reviving long-standing Harry Wilson pursuit
Wilson has remained on Leeds' radar ever since the club attempted to bring him to West Yorkshire last summer.
Fulham ultimately decided against sanctioning his departure, a decision that was justified by the winger's performances throughout the 2025/26 campaign.
The 29-year-old enjoyed one of the most productive seasons of his Premier League career, scoring 10 goals and registering seven assists as Fulham secured another comfortable mid-table finish.
Despite being offered a new contract at Craven Cottage, reports suggest Wilson is expected to leave as a free agent.
Leeds have been pushing hard behind the scenes to secure an agreement and are now increasingly viewed as favourites to complete the deal.
Aston Villa threat remains despite Leeds advantage
Aston Villa remain firmly interested in Wilson and can offer Champions League football next season.
On paper, that should make Villa an attractive destination.
However, Leeds appear to have built momentum in the race.
Having followed Leeds' recruitment approach under Farke, the club have often prioritised players who fit both the tactical system and dressing-room culture. Wilson ticks both boxes and would also reunite with several fellow Welsh internationals already at Elland Road.
Ethan Ampadu has openly admitted he has attempted to convince Wilson to join Leeds, and the presence of a growing Welsh contingent could prove influential.
However, it remains too early to declare the deal done while Villa remain involved.
Why Wilson would be a major signing
Although Leeds would not pay a transfer fee, Wilson’s arrival would still represent one of the most eye-catching free-agent acquisitions of the summer.
His productivity last season highlights exactly why multiple Premier League clubs are interested.
| Harry Wilson 2025/26 Premier League Stats | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 36 |
| Minutes Played | 2,691 |
| Goals | 10 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 5.83 |
| Expected Assists (xA) | 4.78 |
| Key Chances Created | 39 |
| Big Chances Created | 8 |
Source: Premier League performance data – 2025/26 season
Those numbers underline his ability to both score and create chances from wide areas.
Leeds occasionally lacked creativity and unpredictability in the final third last season, and Wilson would provide an immediate upgrade in those areas.
His Premier League experience, proven end product and ability to operate across multiple attacking positions make him a particularly attractive option for a club seeking value in the market.
Key Points
- Leeds United are favourites to sign Harry Wilson.
- The winger is expected to leave Fulham on a free transfer.
- Aston Villa remain interested despite Leeds leading the race.
- Wilson scored 10 goals and provided seven assists last season.
- Daniel Farke has admired the player for some time.
- Ethan Ampadu has reportedly encouraged Wilson to join Leeds.
What's next?
Wilson is expected to make a decision on his future once his Fulham contract officially expires at the end of June.
Leeds will hope their long-standing interest and the opportunity for a key role can outweigh Aston Villa's offer of Champions League football.
Should the move be completed, it would represent one of the standout free-agent deals of the summer transfer window.
Would Harry Wilson be Leeds United's best signing since returning to the Premier League?
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 18 Jun 2026 08:54
Why would Wilson choose Leeds above Villa?
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