It wasn't so long ago that Leeds United were considering sacking Daniel Farke. The 49ers seemingly believed that they were on their way back down to the Championship. It was then, however, that the manager produced a defining act by changing his system and has not looked back since.

Now, those at Elland Road have been backed by many to finish in the top half in what would be a significant step towards becoming an established Premier League side.

Farke's ambition has been matched by the 49ers in the last six months, too. The German welcomed a number of fresh faces in the summer, with Leeds spending big on Tarik Muharemovic and James Trafford whilst also welcoming the talented Jean-Matteo Bahoya on loan with an option to buy.

This is a side on the up, as proved by a 4-1 thrashing of Newcastle United earlier this season and nine points in five games. But as Leeds improve, there are some members of Farke's squad who will naturally miss out.

One of those names is Daniel James. The Welshman fell victim to Leeds' system change last season, which eradicated the need for wingers, and has since failed to start a single Premier League game so far this season.

A decision is now on the horizon at Elland Road and one which could bring James' Leeds career to an end.

Leeds ready to sell Daniel James in January

According to Football Insider's Mick Brown, Leeds are ready to sell James in the January transfer window. There is an internal belief that their squad has moved on from the former Manchester United winger, as proved by his place in the current pecking order.

Former Premier League scout Brown told Football Insider: "I don't think he's a bad player by any means, he's certainly a valuable asset, but Leeds are looking to be ambitious and he's not good enough for where they want to be.

"He can still be useful and he's showing that when he comes off the bench, but if he's not starting games, it's clear that the manager doesn't see him as a key player.

"Leeds went out and bought other wingers during the summer, and when they get up to speed it's only going to push James further down the pecking order. So if a club comes in with a decent offer in January or next year, I expect Leeds will be prepared to accept it."

It's tough to see where James gets back into the current side. Once dubbed "outstanding" by Farke, the winger is quickly becoming a forgotten man in Yorkshire, especially when considering the upgrade Leeds now have in Bahoya.

The Eintracht Frankfurt man arrives with an impressive reputation and should replace James this season after securing eight goal involvements in Germany last season.