Liam Cooper predicted a mass exodus of players at Leeds United and it is looking likely, with new clubs linked with our top players every day – so, here is how Leeds could line-up next season if all of our linked-away players depart.
Of course, Leeds are likely to make a few signings to replace players. Most prominently, a goalkeeper, a midfielder and a winger or two are needed. But here is how Leeds could line-up, if all linked-away players do end up leaving.
How Leeds could line-up if all linked-away players depart:
Goalkeepers
Bit of a simple one. Despite Illan Meslier’s poor form, he is still likely to be sold for a decent fee. Joel Robles could remain but as things stand – he will leave. The retained list said he has been released, but is back for pre-season.
Leeds need a new goalkeeper. Kris Klaesson is third choice and has not done enough to earn the starting spot next season. Meslier may find suitors are not particularly easy to find given his poor form in second half of last season.
Defenders
Liam Cooper, Rasmus Kristensen and Pascal Struijk will all remain. Robin Koch and Diego Llorente will leave. Max Wober is yet to have serious interest in him, but is far too good for the Championship. Charlie Cresswell could go.
FLW say Rangers have had a bid rejected for Cresswell, who is in the final year of his deal. So, Even if four central defenders go, as stated, Leeds still have Kristensen, Cooper and Struijk – forming a potential three-man back line.
At full-back, Cody Drameh has interest from Brentford, Burnley and Luton. Junior Firpo is expected to go. Stuart Dallas is closing in on a return from injury and as a wing-back, he is best suited. Ayling is not going to be leaving.
Midfielders
This is a crucial area Leeds must reinvest. Weston McKennie has already gone. Adam Forshaw is in the same boat as Robles, returning for pre-season but a free agent. Tyler Adams has massive interest in him, Marc Roca will go.
The YEP say a move to Betis is on, but the Spanish club are yet to bid. Where does that leave us? £5m man Gyabi is likely to break in. He has starred for the 21’s, as has Archie Gray. An inexperienced duo. Couple of signings needed.
In the 10 role, Brenden Aaronson is more than likely to leave with Premier League and Bundesliga clubs showing interest so far. While he struggled in his first season, he still has massive potential. Sam Greenwood an easy swap.
Strikers
The interest in our wingers means a 3-4-1-2 is best suited, unless we reinvest. Jack Harrison and Willy Gnonto are more than likely to go. Luis Sinisterra and Cree Summerville will probably follow them. So, 3-4-1-2 could be used.
Up top then. Rodrigo will go. No doubt. If he harbours any hope of retaining his recent return to the Spain squad ahead of Euro 2024, he cannot be playing in the second tier. Bild say Georginio Rutter could return to Hoffenheim.
Dan James will return. He played up top for Leeds at times under Marcelo Bielsa and does do for Fulham, but is better with someone next to him. Patrick Bamford should remain. Joe Gelhardt is useful back-up option to both.
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