Why Leeds United Wanted James Justin
Leeds United have made their full-back signing. James Justin has swapped Leicester blue for Leeds white, a move that feels both sensible and ambitious. After a busy summer, Daniel Farke now has another Premier League-ready defender he can trust as Leeds prepare for a tough season ahead.
So why did Leeds United want James Justin? Let’s break it down.
Daniel Farke’s New Mr. Versatile
If there’s one word that sums James Justin up, it’s versatile. Right-back? No problem. Left-back? He’s done it plenty of times. Slotting into a back three? Leicester used him there too.
That flexibility is gold dust for Daniel Farke and Leeds. Injuries have so often ripped through our defence in recent seasons, and having someone who can cover multiple roles without a dip in quality is exactly what Farke needs.
Premier League Experience
This isn’t a gamble on potential — Justin is proven.
- 36 Premier League appearances last season.
- England international with one cap in 2022.
- FA Cup and Community Shield winner.
He’s been there, done it, and knows the level inside out. Leeds need players who aren’t fazed by the step up. Justin fits the bill.
A Deal That Fits Leeds’ Budget
Leeds didn’t break the bank with this move. Justin was heading into the final year of his contract at Leicester, so the club have swooped in for around £8-10 million. Considering his market value sits closer to £13 million (Transfermarkt), that looks like some tidy business.
This is exactly the kind of clever, calculated signing Leeds have promised to make since promotion — proven players at sensible prices.
The Numbers Back Him Up
Here’s how Justin stacked up in the Premier League last season:
| Stats (2024/25 PL Season) | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 36 |
| Goals / Assists | 2 / 2 |
| Tackles Won (per 90) | 1.14 |
| Interceptions (per 90) | 1.42 |
| Duels Won (per 90) | 5.55 |
| Aerial Duels Won (per 90) | 2.13 |
| Recoveries (per 90) | 2.71 |
Those numbers aren’t flashy, but they tell the story: a steady, reliable defender who puts in the dirty work. The kind of player every survival campaign needs.
He Fixes a Real Squad Problem
While Sam Byram provides solid cover, Leeds now have James Justin as a younger, more reliable Premier League option. Jayden Bogle and Gabriel Gudmundsson have talent, but both need someone pushing them every week.
Justin isn’t coming in to sit on the bench — he’ll want to push straight into the starting XI and raise the standard for everyone else around him.
Final Word
This signing just feels right. Leeds haven’t splashed stupid money, they’ve brought in a player who knows the Premier League, and they’ve strengthened an area that desperately needed depth.
Justin might not grab the headlines of a marquee striker or winger, but make no mistake — players like him keep clubs in the division. Reliable, versatile, and with a point to prove.
What do you make of Leeds United's 10th summer signing?
