How Leeds United could line up after Farke’s ‘dream’ transfer window with four stunning summer signings
Leeds United will hope to build a squad that can survive in the ever-more-difficult Premier League.
Leeds United are just a few weeks away from what chairman Paraag Marathe described as their most important summer in decades. The transfer window opens next month and with it, Elland Road recruitment chiefs will be tasked with building a squad fit to bridge the ever-growing gap between Championship and Premier League.
Speculation surrounding possible targets is already intensifying, with reinforcements needed across the board as Daniel Farke looks to strengthen an already impressive core. Top-level additions are needed in goal and upfront, while arrivals will be welcomed just about everywhere else with depth needed.
Leeds have already been linked to a number of promising players and as fans give their opinions on each, the YEP has attempted to draw up a strongest possible XI if said rumours prove to be true. Take a look below to see who has made the cut.
1. GK: Djordje Petrovic
TEAMtalk reported this week that Leeds were ‘seriously considering’ a move for Petrovic, who has enjoyed an excellent season on loan at Strasbourg. The 25-year-old is labelled a ‘stat monster’ due to having Ligue 1’s best save percentage at 75 per cent, with uncertainty surrounding his Chelsea future.
2. RB: Jayden Bogle
Continues to go from strength to strength at Leeds, with his £5m summer price-tag looking increasingly good with each passing week. Test will be how he copes defensively against the world’s best wingers.
3. CB: Leonardo Balerdi
Leeds are reportedly weighing up a move for the 26-year-old right-sided centre-back, who could be available for around £20m and is thought to be keen on the Premier League. Would offer serious competition for Joe Rodon, who could just as easily keep his spot after an incredible individual campaign.
4. CB: Pascal Struijk
Debate continues as to whether Struijk or Ethan Ampadu should play at left centre-back, but when in doubt it’s preferable to get as many of your best players on the pitch, and so the Dutchman needs to be in. Set-piece threat will be even more important in games Leeds are unlikely to dominate.
5. LB: Junior Firpo
Currently set to leave as a free agent and told the YEP last month Leeds haven’t given any indication on their plans. Spoke candidly about his issues in the Premier League last time and might be keen to prove he can perform at that level, if injury free and playing in a system that suits him. The benefits of a stable back-four cannot be underestimated and there has been a lack of recent reports surrounding left-back interest.
6. CDM: Ethan Ampadu
Struijk’s presence at the back allows the Leeds captain to operate where is feels most comfortable, and that extra steel will be needed against elite-level attacks. Struggled in the Premier League with Sheffield United but has come on leaps and bounds since.
7. CM: Ao Tanaka
The fact Tanaka won Players’ Player of the Season earlier this month is evidence how highly regarded he is among the Leeds squad. Looks more than ready to make the step up to Premier League level.
8. RW: Dan James
Earned his spot as first-choice right-winger with an excellent return of 12 goals and nine assists in the league, but will be tested against better quality full-backs. Pace in behind could be useful if Leeds adopt a more counter-attacking style, while defensive work-rate will also be crucial.
9. CAM: James McAtee
Angus Kinnear confirmed interest in McAtee last year and fresh reports have emerged suggesting Leeds could rival a number of Premier League teams for his signature. Manchester City thought to want around £25m for the attacking midfielder, who would increase the level of technical quality at No.10.
10. LW: Manor Solomon
Leeds are interested in making Solomon’s loan move permanent and recent performances show exactly why. Spurs expected to be open to offers but there will be competition, with Everton and Southampton linked in recent weeks amid suggestions the Israeli international could cost around £15-20m.
11. ST: Beto
Sky Sports broke news of interest in Beto earlier this week, with Everton boss David Moyes wanting to overhaul his attacking unit. The YEP understands a move would be difficult for multiple reasons but the 27-year-old would add top-level experience, plenty of physicality and a decent eye for goal.