Leeds United have reached the September international break sitting fifth in the Premier League, yet January planning has already begun at Elland Road. According to The Leeds Press , Lukas Nmecha and Dan James could both attract attention during the winter window.

Transfermarkt reportedly values the pair at £17.2 million combined. Nmecha joined Leeds United as a free agent last year and supplied useful depth behind Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The German finished the previous campaign as Leeds’ third-highest scorer, but his contract now approaches its final months.

The Leeds Press report suggests the club have shown little urgency about extending Nmecha’s deal. That situation could encourage Leeds to consider a January sale rather than risk losing the forward without a fee.

James faces a different situation. The Welsh winger produced 21 goal involvements during Leeds’ Championship campaign, but injuries restricted him badly after promotion. Last season, the attacker failed to score or assist in the Premier League.

Fresh information indicates James won’t push for a transfer, while Leeds would prefer to keep their squad together. Still, limited minutes under Daniel Farke have created uncertainty around his longer-term position.

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – AUGUST 25: Daniel James of Leeds United celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammate Lukas Nmecha during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Nottingham Forest and Leeds United at City Ground on August 25, 2026 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images

Yes, the two cases should be treated very differently. Leeds should resist any January move for James because his pace, defensive work and top-flight experience give Farke another useful option from the bench. With the club sitting fifth, reducing the manager’s wide choices midway through the season could create an avoidable problem.

James hasn’t produced enough attacking numbers recently, but his value doesn’t depend entirely on goals and assists. His ability to attack tired full-backs late in matches can change the shape of a game. He can press, track runners and stretch a defence when Leeds need fresh legs.