Julian Brandt shown what Leeds role he'd play after promising Harry Wilson debut

Wilson essentially operated as a number 10, looking to dart in between the lines and find the spaces to keep United moving forwards. That Leeds did not enjoy many clear-cut second half chances is not for his lack of effort.

The 29-year-old’s footballing brain is clear, even if current fitness levels prevented everything from coming off. His neat play and dangerous-looking advances bode well - although Wilson is not a natural number 10.

The Wales international is an attacker who has been sparsely deployed as a central attacking midfielder, rather than a 10 who can play out wide - which is what Daniel Farke truly desires.

Wilson can hardly be judged off one 45-minute outing but it remains the case that Brenden Aaronson - who did not feature in the squad amid his World Cup break - is the only specialist number 10.

Farke’s change to a back four in the second half against Wrexham is perhaps the ideal he is working towards, even if it is not what he begins the season with. As such, the number 10 role takes on esteemed importance.

Whether in a 3-4-2-1 or 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation, a player who can both play centrally and on the flank - like Brandt can - will be invaluable and this was evident against Wrexham. As a lone 10, Wilson showed sparks that suggest he can operate in the role if required.

However, half of his four appearances behind the main striker last season came with a wide-10 partner. He scored against both Liverpool and Chelsea in such a mode last season and none while the lone number 10.

His showing against Wrexham was spritely and encouraging but emanated a feeling that he was relatively unaccustomed in the role - a position he played just eight times in five years at Fulham. It is understandable why Leeds wish for a more natural 10, not just for depth but expertise and partnership.

Brandt - who can also play on the left as well as a wide or central 10 - would be just that and if Leeds can win the race for the free agent, they would become much more assuredly flexible.

His European and international pedigree would elevate the ceiling of the squad.

His agent and father, Jurgen, met with Leeds figures at Thorp Arch prior to the trip over to the US. United await a decision but they will not mind being patient if it means Brandt pulls on club colours.

At the same time, if Brandt chooses another destination, fans should expect Leeds to move onto alternatives rather than drop the case altogether. The number 10 role will be pivotal in Farke’s plans for next season.