After two tough seasons bouncing around the Championship, Leeds United are finally back where they want to be — the Premier League.
This summer’s transfer window is shaping up to be crucial, with the club determined not to fall back down the league ladder again.
Chairman Paraag Marathe has made it clear: Leeds will spend every last penny they have to build a squad capable of staying up and competing at the top level.
Our Leeds insider Aadam Patel breaks down what to expect as Elland Road gears up for what could be the most important summer in recent memory.
What Does Leeds Need This Summer?
Simply put, Leeds need reinforcements across the pitch.
The squad that dominated the Championship with 100 points last season won’t cut it in the Premier League — the quality gap is massive.
That means every position is under review, with the goal of adding Premier League-ready talent.
Top of the list is a new goalkeeper. Neither Illan Meslier nor Karl Darlow is seen as reliable enough to start in the top flight right now.
Up front, although Joel Piroe bagged 19 goals and won the Championship Golden Boot, Leeds are on the lookout for a fast, proven striker to lead the line.
The focus? Players who bring Premier League experience and depth.
The club knows it’s not just about star starters but having enough quality to keep the team strong through a grueling season.
How Big Is the Transfer Budget?
Leeds’ American owners, 49ers Enterprises, are backing this push with serious investment.
They’ve raised around £120 million through new share issues and plan to spend close to £150 million in the summer window.
Marathe says, “We’re going to attack the transfer market. It’s something I’m really excited about.”
That said, Leeds will still have to manage their finances under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
They can absorb losses up to £61 million next season due to recent Championship years, but some players will likely be sold to keep things balanced — just like they did with Archie Gray last summer.
By August, expect a very different Leeds squad from the one that clinched the Championship title.
Who’s On Leeds’ Radar?
In goal, Leeds are linked with Wolves’ Sam Johnstone and Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, though Kelleher is in demand across the league, with Brentford already interested.
Southampton’s Aaron Ramsdale, despite recent relegation woes, is also under consideration.
At left back, Leeds may lose Junior Firpo, whose contract expires soon.
They’re interested in Liverpool’s Kostas Tsimikas, though he’d likely need to accept a pay cut.
Firpo, meanwhile, is linked with moves to Real Betis or Lazio, while Leeds try to negotiate a new deal.
Midfield reinforcements are also key. A possible return for Kalvin Phillips is being discussed, and Borussia Monchengladbach’s Julian Weigl is a prime target.
Weigl has Champions League experience and a working relationship with manager Daniel Farke, making him an attractive prospect.
Leeds want to make Manor Solomon’s loan move permanent if possible, but that depends on Tottenham’s plans.
The Championship’s Player of the Season, Gustavo Hamer, is back on the market after Sheffield United failed to gain promotion.
Leeds admire him and tried to sign him last year.
Everton is also chasing Hamer, making it a competitive battle.
Up front, free agent Callum Wilson is a target, but again, competition comes from Everton.
Jamie Vardy, leaving Leicester, and Brighton’s Evan Ferguson are also under consideration.
Which Youngsters Might Step Up?
While Leeds plan big signings, some exciting young players could also fill key roles.
Sixteen-year-old Harry Gray made his debut last season and is highly rated by Farke. Gray has England youth caps but could also represent Scotland.
Nineteen-year-old defender James Debayo, another England youth international, is viewed as a rising talent after his debut late last year.
Then there’s 17-year-old Alfie Cresswell, who has strong family ties to Leeds, following in the footsteps of his father Richard and brother Charlie.
Who’s Likely to Leave?
There will be some turnover. Joe Rothwell and Manor Solomon have returned to their parent clubs after loan spells.
Jack Harrison is back at Leeds after two seasons on loan at Everton.
Joshua Guilavogui, a key player during promotion, will leave after the club decided not to renew his contract.
Meslier could also depart if the right offer arrives, as his time at Leeds has been rocky lately.
Other likely exits include Patrick Bamford, Joe Gelhardt, and Mateo Joseph.
So far, Leeds have announced ten departures, including Harry Christy, Cian Coleman, Connor Ferguson, Max McFadden, and others.
Talks continue with Sam Byram, whose contract ends on June 30.