Daniel Farke is reportedly keeping close tabs on Tyrell Malacia, as the Dutchman prepares to leave Old Trafford on a free transfer following a fallout with Jason Wilcox.
Leeds United are planning a summer move that would see a player “cross the divide” in one of English football’s most bitter rivalries. As Daniel Farke continues to guide the Whites toward Premier League stability, the Elland Road hierarchy has identified Manchester United’s Tyrell Malacia as a key target.
The 49ers-backed board at Leeds is determined to transition from “survival mode” to a Brighton-style rise, and landing a proven international defender on a free transfer is seen as a major step in that direction.
The Malacia “Nightmare” at Old Trafford
It has been a torrid two years for the Dutch left-back. After a promising start under Erik ten Hag, a devastating knee injury sidelined Malacia for a staggering 500 days, forcing him to miss 70 matches.
Since his recovery, the 26-year-old has struggled for minutes, making just three Premier League appearances in the last two seasons. His desperation to leave Old Trafford reached a boiling point on January’s deadline day.
Why Malacia is “Furious” with Jason Wilcox
Reports from Sports Boom suggest Malacia was left “furious” with Manchester United chief Jason Wilcox after a move to Turkey was blocked at the final hour. The defender was reportedly ready to travel to finalize the deal, only for the move to be scrapped, leaving him stranded and frustrated in Manchester.
With his contract set to expire this summer, Malacia will finally have his future in his own hands.
Tyrell Malacia: The Road to Elland Road?
- Status: Free Agent (Summer 2026)
- Experience: 22 caps for Netherlands, 19 Premier League starts (pre-injury).
- Tactical Fit: Ideal for Daniel Farke’s new back-five system as a high-energy wing-back.
A Summer of Rebuilding
Malacia isn’t the only “Manchester-based” target on Farke’s radar. Leeds are also reportedly monitoring Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford and Fulham’s Harry Wilson, both of whom could be available as the Whites look to solidify their top-flight status.
If Leeds can convince Malacia to move to Yorkshire, they would be getting a player with a massive “point to prove.” For Malacia, Elland Road represents the perfect stage to reignite a career that was so cruelly derailed at Old Trafford.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
