Julian Brandt in action for Dortmund in 2026

Leeds United explore Julian Brandt free transfer after Dortmund exit

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Jun 19, 2026, 3:51 pm
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Image: IMAGO / osnapix

Leeds United are reportedly assessing the possibility of signing Julian Brandt on a free transfer following his departure from Borussia Dortmund.

The experienced German playmaker will become available at the end of June when his contract with Dortmund expires, bringing an end to a seven-year spell at Signal Iduna Park. His availability has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe, and Leeds are understood to be among those monitoring the situation.

Should Daniel Farke's side succeed in convincing Brandt to move to Elland Road, it would rank among the club's most eye-catching signings since returning to the Premier League.

Leeds United eye ambitious Julian Brandt move

Brandt leaves Dortmund after establishing himself as one of the Bundesliga club's most productive attacking players of the modern era.

Since arriving from Bayer Leverkusen in 2019, he accumulated 57 goals and 70 assists in 307 appearances across all competitions. The attacking midfielder also played a key role during several successful campaigns, including Dortmund's DFB-Pokal triumph in 2021 and their run to the 2024 UEFA Champions League final.

Leeds believe they could offer Brandt an attractive opportunity as he considers the next step in his career.

However, reports indicate at least one Champions League club is also pursuing the 30-year-old, meaning competition for his signature is likely to be intense.

Why Brandt would be a major statement signing

Although Brandt is entering the latter stages of his career, his experience at the highest level remains significant.

Julian Brandt Career Snapshot Record
Age 30
Germany Caps 48
Dortmund Appearances 307
Dortmund Goals 57
Dortmund Assists 70
Major Honour DFB-Pokal 2020/21

Instead, he would bring proven top-level experience, creativity and leadership to a squad that occasionally lacked composure in attacking areas last season.

His versatility would also appeal to Farke, with Brandt capable of operating centrally, as a winger or in deeper creative roles.

Leeds preparing for important summer

Leeds secured a comfortable 14th-place finish during their first season back in the Premier League, ending the campaign eight points above the relegation zone.

That achievement provided a solid platform, but the club knows strengthening will be required if they are to avoid a second-season struggle.

The summer has been relatively quiet so far, with departures attracting more attention than arrivals.

Goalkeeper Illan Meslier is set to leave when his contract expires at the end of the month, ending a seven-year association with the club. Karl Darlow could also depart amid reported interest from Manchester United, who are searching for a homegrown backup goalkeeper.

Against that backdrop, securing a player of Brandt's pedigree would provide an immediate boost both on and off the pitch.

However, much will depend on whether Leeds can convince the former Germany international to choose Elland Road over clubs offering European football.

Key Points

  • Julian Brandt will leave Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer this month.
  • Leeds United are reportedly exploring a move for the 30-year-old.
  • Brandt registered 57 goals and 70 assists in 307 games for Dortmund.
  • At least one Champions League club is also interested.
  • Leeds are preparing for their second consecutive Premier League season under Daniel Farke.

What's Next?

Brandt is expected to assess all available options once he officially becomes a free agent at the end of June. Leeds will hope the prospect of a central role in Farke's project can help offset the attraction of European football elsewhere.

Meanwhile, recruitment remains a priority across several positions at Elland Road. With the new Premier League season approaching and a challenging opening fixture away to Nottingham Forest awaiting, Leeds are likely to accelerate transfer activity in the coming weeks.

Would Julian Brandt be one of Leeds United's best signings of the modern Premier League era, or should the club focus on younger long-term targets?

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