Now that the 2025/26 season is over and their Premier League status is secure, Leeds United have fully shifted their focus towards the summer transfer window.
Following the defeat against West Ham, Daniel Farke admitted he is drained after a long campaign and intends to take a short break in the coming days. Even so, recruitment plans are already progressing behind the scenes as the club prepare for next season.
Leeds are looking to strengthen in several areas this summer, with the goal of improving both the depth of the squad and the overall quality of the starting lineup.
The club also want to hold on to their best players. However, the Athletic’s Beren Cross has provided a concerning update about the future of one of the mainstays in Farke’s team.
Pascal Struijk may leave Leeds in the summer
Pascal Struijk recovered from a hip injury to feature in Leeds’ 3-0 defeat against West Ham at the London Stadium on the final day of the season.
However, it could also turn out to be his last appearance for Leeds as there is no doubt over his future at Elland Road ahead of the summer window.
According to The Athletic’s Beren Cross, Struijk’s future is uncertain at Leeds ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.
After eight years at Leeds, the Dutch defender could opt to move on from Leeds ahead of the 2026/27 season as part of his plans.
He has a year left on his contract, and unless the defender signs a new deal, there is a real chance that he could move on from Leeds in the upcoming summer transfer window.
It has been claimed that the centre-back could be looking for a fresh challenge after spending nearly a decade at Leeds.
He had suitors in Europe and the Premier League last summer and could have a few takers in the market if he decides to move on from Elland Road this year.
Leeds knocked back a bid for him last year, but will look to secure a big enough fee this summer to ensure they can sign a replacement if Struijk chooses to leave.
Leeds’ interest in experienced centre-backs now makes sense
Leeds have been looking at experienced centre-backs such as Danilho Doekhi despite looking well-stocked in central defence.
Sebastiaan Bornauw will likely return to Germany, but he has been nothing more than a bit part player this season. However, now their plans make sense amid the uncertainty around Struijk’s future.
If the Dutch defender moves on, Leeds will need a centre-back who is ready to slot straight into the starting eleven next season.
Doekhi has not missed a minute of league football in the last two seasons and is available on a free transfer in the summer.
He would be a proper replacement for Struijk with Leeds having to pay a huge transfer fee.
