Leeds United ‘exit set’ as Ao Tanaka one to watch after Elland Road development

Ian Wright expects Ao Tanaka to potentially leave Leeds United soon after winning Premier League promotion at Elland Road.

The Japan international was signed by the Whites from Fortuna Dusseldorf last summer and has exceeded expectations in LS11.

Tanaka played a pivotal role for Daniel Farke in the West Yorkshire outfit’s Championship triumph after injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev.

The 26-year-old formed an impressive partnership with Joe Rothwell at Elland Road, as the Peacocks sealed automatic promotion to the top flight.

Tanaka one to watch in the Premier League next season

Tanaka is the player to watch next season after the Whites won promotion to the Premier League, Wright says.

The Arsenal icon doesn’t expect the Japanese midfielder to stay at Elland Road much longer if he continues to perform well in the top flight.

Wright feels the 26-year-old is one to look out for in the upcoming campaign after an impressive spell in the Championship.

Speaking on The Kelly and Wrighty Show (26 May), Wright said: “I’m going to go with Tanaka at Leeds [player to watch next season]. If he plays like he’s played this season for Leeds in the Premier League, he’s not going to be there long. I’m not trying to get him sold, but he’s one to look out for.”

Farke to worry about Leeds United squad after Premier League promotion

Tanaka has undoubtedly been brilliant at Elland Road in the current campaign, but it remains to be seen how well he does in the Premier League.

The Japanese star has played English top-flight football before, and he’ll definitely need some time to adjust to it.

Farke can’t rely on Ampadu to be his other pivot next season as the Welsh national has picked up consistent injuries over the years.