‘The Fear Is Real’ Burnley FC’s Worst Fears Confirmed as Leeds United’s January Transfer Plans Are Revealed You Will Be Shocked To See This
The race for automatic promotion in the 2024-25 Championship season is shaping up to be an intense battle, echoing the thrilling contest of last season. The trio of Sheffield United, Leeds United, and Burnley are all firmly in the hunt for the coveted top two spots that guarantee a return to the Premier League. Each team has shown impressive form so far, but as the season approaches its midpoint, the smallest margins could make all the difference in determining which clubs secure promotion.
At the moment, Sheffield United are setting the pace, leading the table with 45 points from 21 matches. The Blades have managed to carve out a four-point cushion over Burnley, who currently sit in third. Leeds United, under the stewardship of Daniel Farke, occupy second place, maintaining a slender one-point advantage over Scott Parker’s Burnley. However, with more than half the season still to be played, the standings remain fluid, and the January transfer window looms large as an opportunity for all three sides to strengthen their squads and address any shortcomings.
For Burnley fans, the upcoming transfer window is a source of both hope and anxiety. While Parker’s men have shown considerable resilience and defensive solidity—conceding just nine goals in 21 games, the best defensive record in the division—their attacking creativity remains a major concern. Their expected goals (xG) tally of 22.4 is the seventh-lowest in the league, highlighting the need for a greater spark in the final third. This lack of creativity could ultimately derail their promotion push if not addressed.
Burnley’s current attacking midfield options—Jeremy Sarmiento, Josh Laurent, and Hannibal Mejbri—have filled in admirably, but none of them are natural playmakers suited to a traditional number 10 role. The trio have created just five big chances between them this season, leaving forwards like Jay Rodriguez and Zian Flemming starved of quality service. If Burnley are to maintain their promotion charge, adding a more dynamic and creative midfielder in January is imperative.
This is where the transfer market becomes critical, and Burnley must be proactive. Leeds United are also dealing with similar creative struggles and appear to be actively addressing the issue. Reports have linked Leeds with potential moves for Manchester City youngster James McAtee and Aston Villa’s Emi Buendia. These two players represent exactly the calibre of talent that Burnley should be targeting to resolve their own attacking issues.
James McAtee, who spent last season on loan at Sheffield United, proved his ability to make an impact in the Championship, contributing significantly to the Blades’ promotion. He possesses excellent vision, composure, and a knack for unlocking defences. Leeds’ interest in McAtee is well-founded, and Burnley would be wise to join the race for his signature, especially given Manchester City’s willingness to loan out their young prospects for further development.
Similarly, Emi Buendia is a proven Championship performer who thrived under Daniel Farke’s system at Norwich City. Buendia’s creativity, flair, and eye for goal could make him an invaluable addition to any side aiming for promotion. While a summer reunion with Leeds didn’t materialise, the situation may change in January if Aston Villa can bring in reinforcements of their own. If Villa manager Unai Emery decides to let Buendia leave on loan, Burnley should seize the opportunity to compete with Leeds for his services.
Scott Parker must make his case to Burnley’s chairman, Alan Pace, to pursue these kinds of deals aggressively. The Clarets’ impressive defensive record has carried them this far, but history shows that promotion-winning teams need a balance of solidity at the back and creativity up front. Relying solely on defensive strength is a risky strategy; goals win games, and creativity fuels goals.
Financially, Burnley should be in a strong position to compete with Leeds for these signings. Both clubs offloaded significant talent in the summer, replenishing their coffers. Therefore, financing loan deals or even permanent transfers for McAtee or Buendia should not be a prohibitive challenge. The competition is stiff, but Leeds are unlikely to sign both players, leaving an opportunity for Burnley to swoop in and secure at least one of them.
The importance of January cannot be overstated. The moves made—or not made—in the winter window could be the defining factor in the race for automatic promotion. If Burnley want to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking, they need to act decisively. Competing with Leeds United for top-tier creative talent like James McAtee or Emi Buendia would send a clear signal of intent to the rest of the league. The Turf Moor faithful will be watching closely, hoping their club doesn’t miss out on the reinforcements needed to secure a spot back in the top flight.
