Leeds United have been smart operators in the summer transfer window. They have gone about their business with meticulous precision and have strengthened key areas of the squad without spending massive money on any one player ahead of their Premier League return.
The Whites wanted to strengthen their defence and midfield early, as per Daniel Farke’s recent claims to the media. Five players were bought in, including the eye-catching grabs of Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach, to add power and height to the squad this summer.
Leeds also knew going into the window that they needed a new number one, as it was clear towards the end of last season that Illan Meslier would be a liability in the Premier League. Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri is in the process of finalising a £15m move to Elland Road to sort out a huge problem for the club.
The Whites have turned their attention towards adding more pace and goals to their attack, with Igor Paixao and Rodrigo Muniz identified as their top targets. However, there is going to be one unexpected departure from their forward line this summer.
Can you name the team Leeds United signed these players from in the 2000s?
Leeds United have a preference for Mateo Joseph’s exit
Mateo Joseph handed in a transfer request earlier this week and has refused to report for pre-season training with the squad in Germany.
The striker has suitors in England, but he wants to return to Spain amid interest from Real Betis this summer, who also wanted him in the winter window.
Leeds have already rejected an offer of a loan with an option to buy from the Spanish club, and have a clear preference for Joseph’s departure in the ongoing window.
According to TEAMTalk, Leeds would prefer to let him go on a straight loan with no option or obligation to buy attached to the agreement.
Leeds were said to be holding out for a fee of around £13m, but it has been claimed that they do not want to sell him this summer
The Whites still believe in his talent and feel the player could be worth far more money in a year’s time, following a productive loan spell away from Elland Road.
However, Real Betis want the option to buy, and the impasse has stalled negotiations for Joseph’s exit.
Joseph’s departure is certain
With Leeds expected to sign a new striker this summer, the Spaniard was not expected to be anything more than a back-up next season.
However, the transfer request has made it certain that he will be leaving the club before the transfer window slams shut at the end of August.
Daniel Farke is big on team spirit and a healthy atmosphere inside the dressing room, and he doesn’t want anyone in there who is not committed to Leeds.
Joseph will leave, and it is only a matter of when, not if.
