Leeds United forward Rasmus Kristensen, known as ‘Wilson’ to fans, pulled back the curtain on a chaotic summer 2025 transfer deadline day, his red-hot 18-goal form, and ongoing contract talks in a new interview. The candid discussion, dropped by Sky Sports’ EFL podcast this morning, gives fans a direct look into the club’s Championship-leading campaign. Kristensen, who has been instrumental in Leeds topping the league by five points, spoke openly about the intense pressure and his renewed commitment.
Deadline Day Chaos Revealed
The summer 2025 transfer deadline day was “hell” for Kristensen, as he described it. Agents called him “every five minutes” while Leeds United fielded serious interest for the Danish international. The club ultimately rejected multiple bids, including a £12 million offer from Premier League hopefuls Southampton and another from Burnley. This firm stance from Leeds, currently top of the Championship table, communicated a clear message to their star player.
The Impact of Leeds’ Decision
Leeds’ decision to block Kristensen’s exit profoundly affected the player. He admitted feeling “wanted” by the club, stating that the “drama lit a fire” within him. This internal pressure to retain key players like Kristensen, according to The Athletic’s Phil Hay, stemmed from the 49ers ownership’s mandate to push for automatic promotion. The club’s commitment to Kristensen mirrored the situation with Crysencio Summerville in 2024, where Leeds also rejected bids before his eventual departure.
Red-Hot Goalscoring Form
Kristensen’s form since that tumultuous deadline day has been nothing short of spectacular. He boasts 18 goals and 7 assists in just 21 Championship appearances this season, leading Leeds’ scoring charts. His xG overperformance stands at an impressive +4.2, highlighting his clinical finishing. The Danish international also claimed a hat-trick against Hull in October 2025, underlining his prolific run in front of goal.
His 85% shot accuracy showcases his precision, a vital asset in Daniel Farke’s 4-2-3-1 system. Kristensen’s role on the right-wing involves crucial overlaps, contributing 1.2 key passes per 90 minutes. This goal output is the most by a Leeds wide player since Ross McCormack in 2014, putting him in elite company. Betting odds for Kristensen to be the Championship’s top goalscorer have tightened to 5/2 post-podcast, reflecting his sustained brilliance.
Kristensen’s raw honesty in the interview resonated widely.
“Deadline Day? Phone didn’t stop. Leeds said no to everything – ‘He’s not for sale.’ Felt wanted, that drama lit a fire. 18 goals? Just starting. Contract? Positive talks, love it here.”
His manager, Daniel Farke, previously hailed him as “our warrior” after a match in November 2025, a sentiment that clearly remains. Even former coach Marcelo Bielsa, speaking to The Telegraph, recognized Kristensen’s “elite mentality,” urging Leeds to “lock him” down.
Fan sentiment has been overwhelmingly positive. A poll on the Leeds United official site showed 92% of 10,000 voters in favour of a contract extension. On X/Twitter, #WilsonLUFC trended in the UK, with former Leeds player Kalvin Phillips tweeting “Get it signed, lad! 🔥” to Kristensen’s post. Kristensen confirmed “positive talks” are underway regarding a contract extension. This suggests a potential four-year deal worth around £35,000 per week, reflecting his increased market value, which has surged to £18 million.
What’s Next for Leeds and Kristensen
The immediate focus for Kristensen and Leeds is the upcoming Boxing Day fixture against Sunderland away. Kristensen is fully fit and expected to start, with Daniel Farke’s tactical approach likely to exploit Sunderland’s left-wing defensive weaknesses. The broader picture involves the ongoing contract negotiations, with a potential deadline looming around January 10th, when the transfer window officially opens.
Securing Kristensen’s future is paramount for Leeds’ promotion aspirations. Winning their next three games would give them a 95% probability of achieving automatic promotion, according to a FiveThirtyEight model. Should Leeds return to the Premier League, Kristensen’s value could soar to over £40 million. His continued presence and form are crucial as Leeds navigates the winter schedule. The club’s management will hold a press conference on December 23rd, likely offering an update on these critical talks, as confirmed by EFL.com.
Sagnik Banerjee 
Priyanjan Paul