NafisaLeeds United appear poised for a hectic summer transfer window, with a reported £100million war chest available for Daniel Farke as 49ers Enterprises aim to assemble a squad equipped to survive the drop.
Leeds were crowned champions on the final day of the campaign after their triumph at Plymouth Argyle, having clinched promotion a week earlier, but they must overcome recent precedent—each of the last six sides promoted from the Championship suffered relegation after just one season in the Premier League.
The Whites have already been linked with multiple targets, even though the regular domestic season wrapped up only a fortnight ago, with several crucial decisions looming.
Leeds remain in discussions with Sam Byram and Junior Firpo over fresh contracts at Elland Road, and retaining the latter of the defensive pair will be crucial given his Premier League experience and displays this term.
Real Betis have been credited with interest in the left-back, but he’s been instrumental under Farke, and keeping him at the club would remove the need for a major signing in that area this summer.
The priority for Leeds this off-season lies in goal. Karl Darlow was reliable in the final matches, stepping in for Illan Meslier, whose errors nearly derailed Leeds’ title hopes and promotion push.
Farke will almost certainly aim to secure a new first-choice goalkeeper, and Southampton’s Aaron Ramsdale is one name linked with a switch to Elland Road.
The Saints’ relegation could pave the way for Ramsdale’s exit following a difficult season. Despite Southampton’s defensive woes, the England international has shown he still possesses the quality to compete in the Premier League, with multiple top-tier sides reportedly eyeing a £25million transfer.
Leeds’ defensive record was poor during their last Premier League stint, and adding a new centre-back will enhance their depth at the back.
Leonardo Balerdi has been mooted for a £20million move from Marseille this summer, which would be a smart piece of recruitment considering his consistent showings in Ligue 1.
Jayden Bogle and Joe Rodon were standout performers last season and have earned the opportunity to test themselves in the top flight. Ao Tanaka was another clever acquisition last summer and delivered composed performances in the centre of midfield.
With Ethan Ampadu operating in a deeper midfield position, Tanaka could push forward into a more attacking role in Leeds’ midfield setup. When it comes to creativity, Man City’s James McAtee continues to be mentioned in connection with a move to Elland Road, where Leeds could offer him regular minutes in the number 10 role.
Re-signing Manor Solomon would be a logical move if a deal can be struck with Tottenham Hotspur. With the Israel international on the left and Daniel James on the right, Leeds just need to bring in a quality striker to reinforce the attack and improve their chances of staying up.
Jamie Vardy and Callum Wilson have both been suggested as potential free agent signings, but a move for Everton’s Beto might be the most attractive.
The Portuguese international may not have the most prolific scoring record, but he has been among the most improved players since David Moyes arrived at Goodison Park.
Not all these additions may generate headlines, and more names will surely surface before the transfer window shuts at the end of August, but several of these moves look like smart business.
Leeds United’s ideal starting XI for 2025/26: Ramsdale; Bogle, Balerdi, Rodon, Firpo; Tanaka, Ampadu, McAtee; James, Beto, Solomon.
Nafisa
