With the season out of the way, Leeds United can put all their focus on the summer transfer window. Key decisions will be made concerning the squad as they prepare for the Premier League next season.
Daniel Farke will have confidence now that he has been backed by Leeds chairman Paraag Marathe. The club will also expect significant financial backing to do business, after Marathe made his promise:
“…we are going to build the best squad we can with every penny we are allowed to spend to compete in the Premier League. I’m under no illusions that it’s going to be easy. I know all the stats, that last season’s three promoted clubs went right back down.”
Leeds will also benefit from the finances of being promoted, with the club set to receive over £110million this summer.
QUIZ: Can you name the missing sponsor on these 10 Leeds United shirts?
Leeds United set to make first summer signing
Credit: Imago Images
The club have been linked with multiple targets in recent weeks. A host of goalkeepers mentioned after Illan Meslier’s future became unclear near the end of the season. The Frenchman is said to be one of three players who would be the first out of the door in the summer. Josuha Guilavogui will leave when his contract is up in the summer, and Patrick Bamford could also leave Elland Road.
Alan Nixon has reported that Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi is a top target for Leeds United this summer. The club are said to have been in France to watch the defender this season, and are convinced he would be a good addition to the team. Balerdi is also said to be very interested in a move to England. Marseille would reportedly demand £20million.
Why would Leeds need another center back?
The answer is simple; squad depth. Looking back at this season, and how the club suffered an injury crisis, Daniel Farke would prefer to have a larger squad in the Premier League. Balerdi comes with experience, and is rarely ever injured. More importantly, it would mean Ethan Ampadu would not have to fill in at the back for most of the season like he has done since last year.
