Leeds United are just three points from the relegation zone in the Premier League, but are being backed to survive in the top tier this season.
The Whites are keen to secure their safety as soon as possible, but work is underway to identify targets for the upcoming summer transfer window.
Leeds hope that they will be again recruiting for the Premier League and signing a goalkeeper, a top-class midfielder and a striker is believed to be the priorities for next summer.
However, the club are also aware that they need to bring in at least one more centre-back and Leeds are looking at Manchester City to nab a top-class young talent.
Leeds are chasing the signature of Manchester City talent Stephen Mfuni
Daniel Farke’s 5-3-2 system means Leeds’ defensive resources have been stretched, and James Justin’s ability to provide a back-up centre-back option has saved them this season.
However, Leeds need one more centre-back, and according to The Sun journalist Alan Nixon, Leeds have their eyes on Manchester City’s 18-year-old defender Stephen Mfuni.
The teenager is currently on loan at Watford, where he has made eight appearances and has caught the eye with his performances in the Championship.
Manchester City will again loan him out when he returns, and Leeds are leading the race to sign the young defender on a season-long contract next summer.
The Whites have been scouting him diligently and believe he is good enough to play in the Premier League next season.
They are not worried about his age or lack of experience and feel that he can be a good addition to their defensive options for next season.
However, several other clubs in England and Europe have their eyes on Mfuni and will make a beeline for his services in the summer.
Can they offer him regular minutes?
Daniel Farke is not a fan of changing his backline and believes in consistency of selections to have a settled defence in front of the goalkeeper.
Sebastiaan Bornauw has found minutes hard to come by, and there is some serious competition for places due to Justin’s form in the back three.
It is hard to see how Mfuni gets into the team next season, given his inexperience and the presence of a few solid centre-backs in the Leeds squad.
Unless Leeds decide to cash in on one of their established centre-backs, it seems unclear how they can convince Manchester City to loan Mfuni out to them.
They will demand certain guarantees over playing time, and Manchester City may opt to loan him out to a promoted team next season.
