Leeds United face a crucial few weeks as they continue to try to fine-tune their squad this summer ahead of the 2026/27 season.
One issue that may require immediate attention is the goalkeeping situation. Reports linking Karl Darlow with a free-transfer move to Manchester United have raised fresh uncertainty, potentially forcing Leeds to accelerate their search for a new goalkeeper.
Away from that, the club are already active in the transfer market and appear to be making encouraging progress on a major target. Leeds are reportedly closing in on a club-record deal for Sporting Lisbon centre-back Ousmane Diomande after reaching a verbal agreement with the player.
Leeds are keen for more defensive reinforcements, especially in the full-back areas, and they may now have a chance to sign a Premier League-proven star after Sunderland missed a deadline.
Lutsharel Geertruida is available in the open market again
Sunderland signed Lutsharel Geertruida from RB Leipzig on loan with an option to buy him on a permanent deal.
The Dutch defender enjoyed an impressive debut Premier League season and has been called up to the Netherlands squad for the World Cup as a replacement for the injured Jurrien Timber.
However, according to Sky Deutschland journalist Philipp Hinze, Sunderland’s deadline to sign the right-back on a permanent deal has passed.
The Black Cats have missed the deadline to sign him for the previously agreed £20m transfer fee, and the defender is now available in the open market again.
RB Leipzig are pushing to sell him this summer, and several clubs are interested in signing the Dutch star in the upcoming transfer window.
Leeds have been linked with an interest in Geertruida as Daniel Farke is believed to be keen on signing a quality versatile full-back this summer.
Sunderland have not ruled out signing him again. However, they want to negotiate down the fee and sign him for a figure less than the £20m mark.
The Whites must get involved in the race for the defender
James Justin stepped up and ensured Leeds didn’t feel shortchanged when either Gabriel Gudmundsson or Jayden Bogle missed games last season.
He turned out to be an all-purpose defender who even played in a back three when required and ensured Leeds had cover in three positions.
| 🛡️ Defensive & Tactical Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| 👕 Total Appearances (Premier League) | 30 |
| ⏱️ Total Minutes Played | 1,865′ |
| ⚔️ Total Duels Won | 68 / 120 |
| 📊 Overall Duels Success Rate | 56.7% |
| 🪓 Tackles Won % | 53.0% (21/40) |
| ✈️ Aerial Headers Won % | 48.0% (14/29) |
| 🧱 Defensive Clearances | 50 |
| 🔀 Interceptions Logged | 21 |
| 🛑 Shots Blocked | 11 |
| 🧩 Pass Completion % (Build-up) | 87.0% (716/826) |
| ⚠️ Total Fouls Conceded | 16 |
However, Leeds need quality full-back cover, and Lutsharel Geertruida represents a brilliant opportunity to sign a Premier League-proven performer.
Farke would not have to worry about bedding him in after his season in the Premier League with Sunderland, and at £20m he could represent good value for money.
