LEEDS, ENGLAND - APRIL 25: Leeds United fans show their support with scarfs during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Leicester City at Elland Road on April 25, 2023 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Leeds United transfer news: Medical update as winner named in Daiki Hashioka pursuit with Luton Town – Fabrizio Romano
Luton Town have won the race to sign Daiki Hashioka from Sint-Truiden despite Leeds United interest, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian journalist reported via Twitter late on 28 January that the Premier League side were set to sign the Japanese defender for €2million [£1.71m], with a medical expected to be conducted the following day.
Phil Hay had reported earlier on 28 January that the Whites did make an approach to sign the right-sided full-back, but “concerns” had emerged over the injury that he is currently out with.
Romano wrote: “Daiki Hashioka to Luton Town, here we go! Agreement reached right now to sign Japanese fullback from Sint-Truiden.
“Understand Hashioka will travel on Monday for medical tests. Fee will be €2m, as [Telegraph journalist Mike McGrath] called. Done deal despite Leeds and Trabzonspor interest.”
Romano then reported on Monday morning (29 January): “Daichi Hashioka, in London today to undergo medical tests at Luton Town after €2m deal agreed with Sint-Truiden. Understand Japanese fullback will sign contract valid until June 2027, three and half deal.”
Back to the drawing board
Whether Leeds United were happy to let the 24-year-old go elsewhere thanks to their apparent fitness concerns, or Luton simply gazumped them because they are in the Premier League, he isn’t on his way to Elland Road.
Daniel Farke and company were interested enough to make an approach so it will be a disappointment that he hasn’t proven to be the answer to any questions for the Whites either way.
With Djed Spence sent back to Tottenham early in the window and Luke Ayling allowed to leave for Middlesbrough the numbers at right-back are very thin.
Since the only actual specialist in the squad, Sam Byram, is the de facto starter on the left it means the position is currently being held down by a midfielder in Archie Gray and backed up by another midfielder in Jamie Shackleton.
