Leeds United have some important decisions to make in the coming weeks as preparations for the 2026/27 season gather pace.
One area that could quickly become a priority is the goalkeeping department. With Karl Darlow being linked with a free-transfer move to Manchester United, Leeds may need to reassess their plans and move more aggressively in the market for a new goalkeeper.
Elsewhere, there are signs of real progress on the recruitment front. The Whites are believed to be advancing in their pursuit of Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande and could be closing in on a club-record transfer after reportedly agreeing personal terms with the centre-back.
The potential arrival of Diomande will require a significant sale, and the club are now preparing the ground for the exit of defender Pascal Struijk this summer.
Read More: Major Ousmane Diomande update as Leeds eye record-breaking transfer
Leeds identify the price for Pascal Struijk
Pascal Struijk has a year left on his contract and is undecided on whether to stay at Elland Road beyond the summer transfer window.
The Dutch defender is said to be considering taking up a fresh challenge despite Leeds wanting to hold on to the centre-back for next season.
However, Leeds are prepared to sell him if he doesn’t sign a new deal, and their move for Diomande shows that they are looking to bring in his replacement.
According to TeamTalk, Leeds have also identified an asking price for the centre-back ahead of the transfer window opening.
The Whites want somewhere around the £20m and £25m mark for the 26-year-old Dutchman this summer.
Leeds are ready to move on from Struijk soon if the player is planning to leave Elland Road in the upcoming transfer window.
The club are open to selling him as long as the right offer arrives on their table for the centre-back in the coming weeks and months.
Leeds need to show they can be ruthless
Daniel Farke is keen to keep Leeds United moving forward and knows the squad will need further strengthening if the club are to build on their progress in the Premier League.
With questions still hanging over Pascal Struijk’s future, Leeds need to be more ruthless and take the decision out of his hands. Pursuing Diomande would not only provide clarity in a key position but also demonstrate the club’s determination to improve the quality of the squad.
The Sporting Lisbon centre-back is widely regarded as one of the most promising defenders in Europe, and his arrival would represent a significant addition to Farke’s options. It could also help bring Struijk’s situation to a head, with Leeds needing certainty ahead of the new season.
Just as importantly, signing Diomande would send a powerful message about the club’s ambitions. Given the calibre of teams reportedly tracking him, persuading the defender to choose Elland Road would underline Leeds’ desire to establish themselves as more than just a side looking to survive in the Premier League.
