With survival now within touching distance, the club have already started putting plans in place for the summer transfer window and are considering several potential targets before the season finishes.
Unlike last summer, Leeds are not expected to overhaul the squad, but they are still determined to strengthen key areas ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Leeds are expected to bring in defensive reinforcements in the summer, and the club are likely to rekindle their interest in a target from last year, if he becomes available.
Matt Target signals future intent amid interest from Leeds United
The full-back joined Middlesbrough from Newcastle United last summer on loan despite interest from Leeds, who were in the market for a full-back.
His contract at Newcastle will expire at the end of the season, and Matt Targett has indicated that he won’t be signing a new deal with the Magpies.
He revealed that Middlesbrough are likely to offer him a permanent contract if they get promoted to the Premier League this season.
However, Targett is ready to consider his options in the summer if Boro fail at the playoff hurdle in the Championship.
He was quoted as saying by the Newcastle World: “The future? I’m not sure, to be honest. I believe I’m done at Newcastle, so that chapter is closed.
“Hopefully we get promoted here [at Boro], and there will be a contract for me…but if not, I’ve played as much as I can this season, so I’ll assess my options.”
Leeds are amongst the clubs who are keeping tabs on Targett and would try to sign him on a free transfer if Middlesbrough do not get promoted.
The club need full-back cover
Gabriel Gudmundsson’s latest injury has exposed a key area of the squad. James Justin has done a brilliant job of covering at left-back in the Swede’s absence.
The Swede is the undoubted first choice, but Leeds need an experienced cover, and Targett could represent a value for money target in the summer.
He will be available on a free transfer and will add more Premier League experience to the squad.
Newcastle won’t offer him a contract. He’s not really our level now. Same as Longstaff.