Promotion remains a real possibility at Leeds United despite the recent poor form under Daniel Farke and if it isn’t the top two, then it may be the play-offs again for The Whites.
Six games remain starting with tonight’s trip to Middlesbrough. A game which came about last season in April in similar circumstances, proving to be Leeds’ last win of the regular 2023-24 Championship season.
Patrick Bamford said Daniel Farke masterminded that 4-3 win and now, Farke must do the same come Tuesday night as Leeds look to get back on track and pile the pressure on Sheffield United and Burnley.
Getting promoted is half the job, one that Luton boss Matt Bloomfield expects Leeds to do. But the other half is staying in the Premier League – something Leicester City, Ipswich Town and Southampton won’t do.
Gabby Agbonlahor identifies £100m problem Leeds must solve
If promoted, Leeds will need to invest. Adam Pope says Leeds need six major signings and will have to spend north of £100m to stand a chance, while Phil Hay says The 49ers and RedBull give Leeds a chance.
Southampton spent north of £100m, while Ipswich did too. Leicester were a bit under the nine-figure total but still spent plenty and yet, none of the three promoted sides have managed to survive this term.
Speaking to TalkSPORT on Tuesday (April 8, 8.40AM), Agbonlahor said that this season’s promoted teams have got to look at Southampton’s poor spending after their relegation was confirmed, and learn from it.
“Spending that sort of money, you would rather spend £100m on three or four top players that will make a big difference rather than spread it out on average players. Ben Brereton Diaz, £9m – didn’t work out.
“Southampton spent £100m. The teams that come up this year – Leeds, Sheffield United, Burnley, they have to get it right. Because if you do, Brentford did it and they’re fine,” Agbonlahor said on TalkSPORT.
Which positions do Leeds need to strengthen if Whites go up?
The first one is obvious – a goalkeeper. Illan Meslier is set to enter the last year of his contract and Leeds will need a better option to stand any chance of survival. Another centre-back too, given a lack of depth.
Pascal Struijk’s latest injury shows Leeds only have Max Wober in reserve, and Wober is expected to go. Junior Firpo could leave too with his contract expiring in June, so a new left-back is also a necessity.
More cover in central midfield given Ethan Ampadu often drops into defence is key, while a better version of Brenden Aaronson would be ideal. Manor Solomon permanently, or a winger proven in the top tier.
Similarly, Leeds need a striker that can score goals at the top level. Patrick Bamford is also expected to go and both Joel Piroe and Mateo Joseph are unproven, so a quality striker is as important as the rest.
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