With Carpi performing well in Serie B, and Mbakogu scoring 8 goals in his first 22 games of the season in all competitions during the 2017–18 season, in January 2018, Mbakogu was subject of interest from English side Leeds United. On 31 January 2018, Leeds United agreed an 'option' with Carpi to sign the player at the end of the 2017–18 season should they wish to execute the right.
