Newly-promoted teams rarely stay up in their first season in the Premier League, and Leeds United have navigated that already. The Whites managed a solid season despite some ups and downs.
Leeds and Sunderland defied the odds this year, and they did it in very different ways. Regis Le Bris’ side had a surprising first half of the season, picking up as many points as possible.
That gave them a big enough cushion that they comfortably saw out the rest of the season.
Leeds on the other hand, had the reverse – a very average start to the season, that dipped near the midway point. However, Daniel Farke found a way to make the team tick.
The Whites came out swinging in the second half of the season, and picked enough points to reach safety.
Leeds United make contact with key summer target
Both Leeds United and Sunderland achieved this with smart recruitment last summer. Most promoted clubs go after Championship players or overpay for Premier League players with no upside.
These two teams did the opposite of that; targeting top quality players from outside England. Now that they have another year to look forward to, they have to improve their teams again.
Especially when it comes to Leeds, where Daniel Farke has made his stance clear.
He might get his wish this summer with multiple targets linked. According to Voetbal International, Leeds have been linked with PSV left back Mauro Junior.
The 27-year old Brazilian has been a permanent fixture down the left flank since joining the Dutch side in 2020.
Per the report, the Whites have made contact with the player, and ‘actively enquired’ over a potential move.
READ MORE: Asking price revealed for attacking midfielder eager to join Leeds United
PSV reveal stance on Mauro Junior’s exit
Voetbal International believe that PSV will be very reluctant to part ways with the defender this summer. They have plans to block any exits.
However, Junior has a release clause with a ‘limited transfer fee’. It is believed that Leeds United are aware of this, and if they want to sign him, they will have to trigger it.
Gabriel Gudmundsson was a solid addition this past season, but he did not have a backup which caused issues during the campaign.
Junior is a solid option that can compete with the Swedish international. He also has versatility and can play in midfield.
Depending on his price tag, this could be a shrewd move for the 49ers.
