Pascal Struijk’s Leeds United exit has affected major plans for this transfer window. The bid came in a few weeks ago, and had to be wrapped up quickly for financial reasons.
Leeds needed the funds for their books ahead of the PSR deadline at the end of June.
Now that the deal is done, the Whites are in a difficult place ahead of the new season. The 49ers now have to sign a replacement for the Dutchman who cost the club almost nothing.
Struijk joined on a low fee as a youth player years ago and has come up through the ranks.
Last season, he proved himself as a Premier League level player and other clubs also took notice. Selling him was a straightforward decision, replacing him will be the difficult part.
Fabrizio Romano confirms move for Leeds United target
A long list of defenders have been linked with a move to Elland Road for months.
From Ousmane Diomande to Nico Elvedi, a lot of targets have been named in the news. However, Leeds United are yet to officially launch a move for any of these players as things stand.
One target who can be crossed off the list is Danilho Doekhi.
The former Union Berlin star is off to Lazio according to Fabrizio Romano. The Brazilian was a free agent, and Leeds had explored a move in January, but did not pull the trigger.
Doekhi will sign a three-year contract after he successfully completes his medicals in Rome.
READ MORE: Adam Pope drops fresh update on potential Leeds United exit: “As far as I know…”
49ers will need to spend big on replacements
As learned last season, money will get you quality in the market.
Leeds signed two central defenders in the summer window; Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw. Bijol cost near £18 million, while Bornauw was less than half of that figure.
And it showed on the pitch, the Slovenian took some time but when he adapted he was a nailed-on starter.
Bornauw did show he could fill in, but was never really trusted by Daniel Farke.
Losing a player like Struijk is a big deal, the Dutchman made the seamless transition from Championship football. Leeds now have to find a defender better than his level and that will cost a lot in this market.
Considering the fact that one of Max Wober or Sebastiaan Bornauw could leave, more could be spent on a second defender.
The 49ers need to be prepared to pay what is necessary in order to help the team flourish next season.
