Losing players is very difficult, but if any team has shown they can do it, it is Leeds United. Daniel Farke’s men lost three of their best players before their promotion campaign.
Archie Gray, Georginio Rutter and Crysencio Summerville all left after the playoff defeat to Southampton.
But Daniel Farke managed to pick up the pieces and push his side back into the Premier League. Now a Premier League side, most would expect the Whites to not worry about any more exits.
In their first summer window after promotion, the club have lost another key player.
Brighton have signed Pascal Struijk for a fee believed to be around £15 million. The Whites were powerless to lose one of their core players, as he was in the final year of his contract.
Graham Smyth reveals Leeds United plans for Pascal Struijk exit
Leeds United will now have to find a replacement for a player who was consistent for them last year.
Graham Smyth has revealed some details about the club’s pursuit for potential replacements for their departed player. Per the report, two targets are being considered this summer.
Juventus star Lloyd Kelly, and Wolves defender Ladislav Krejci top the club’s list.
Kelly is said to be worth around £25 million, while Wolves will be expected to make profit off the £26 million they paid for the Czech Republic international. It has been said that the Whites are more confident of a move for Krejci.
They had initial talks when Leeds met Wolves at Elland Road a few months ago.
The player is said to be open to a move, and his club will be keen on selling to avoid wage troubles in the Championship.
READ MORE: Real reason behind Leeds United exit decision revealed
Pascal Struijk exit still hurts
Struijk being sold is an issue that will be frustrating to the ownership.
It could have been resolved before the summer window. Going into this season, everyone was aware that the center back was in the final 18 months of his contract, so anything could happen.
If Leeds had found out his intentions early, then maybe the club could have cashed in on him when a huge bid arrived last year.
But Pascal Struijk remained, played the full season and elevated his own stock.
When Brighton came around, they had the bargaining power, as Leeds would not risk losing the defender on a free transfer next year. The 49ers could have done a better job in this situation.
