It is now less than two weeks until Leeds United’s Championship opener against Cardiff City.
Leeds are set to host the Bluebirds at Elland Road in what will be their first game back in the second tier after three consecutive years in the Premier League.
Preparation for the new campaign has been far from ideal for Leeds, with so much uncertainty surrounding the ownership situation, though that was finally given the green light last week.
However, that has certainly impacted Leeds’ ability in the transfer market so far this summer as only one new face has been added to Daniel Farke’s squad.
So, with that in mind, here is a look at how Leeds could line up against Cardiff, as things stand.
Goalkeeper
According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Leeds are hopeful of completing a deal for a new goalkeeper in the coming days, though the identity of the player at this stage it is unclear.
Illan Meslier is still expected to depart Elland Road this summer but as of yet, no bids have been received and so it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him start as number one.
Defence
Having lost Robin Koch, Diego Llorente and Rasmus Kristensen, with Max Wober set to follow, this is undoubtedly an area that needs strengthening.
That said, Leeds’ back four could certainly have a fresh look to it if Farke opts with two youngsters in Cody Drameh and Leo Hjelde at full-back, who shone on loan in the Championship last season.
Charlie Cresswell will also be pushing for a place in central defence, but Pascal Struijk and Liam Cooper may well be the partnership of choice.
Midfield
The midfield two is the only position that is likely to see a new signing with Ethan Ampadu having joined from Chelsea and there is no doubt he will play a key role.
With Tyler Adams still injured, that could leave the door open for one of Archie Gray or Darko Gyabi to start. Based on pre-season performances so far, it is the former who looks likely to get the call at this stage.
Attack
Leeds are yet to lose any of their prized assets in attack so far this summer and that makes for an extremely exciting front four that could start the season.
Luis Sinisterra looks set to line up on the left, with Crysencio Summerville getting the nod in the number 10 position after an impressive outing against Monaco.
Wilfried Gnonto should pip Dan James to the starting role on the right, with Georginio Rutter leading the line ahead of Patrick Bamford.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Meslier; Drameh, Struijk, Cooper, Hjelde; Ampadu, Gray; Gnonto, Summerville, Sinisterra; Rutter
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