Leeds United have confirmed that long-term employee Adam Underwood has become the club’s new sporting director, in a big move that sees The 49ers promote internally rather than hire externally.
With Nick Hammond set to join Angus Kinnear at Everton ahead of such an important summer for Leeds, The Whites have chosen to give a big part of the reigns to Underwood. Leeds now have a team in place.
That team will be responsible, alongside Daniel Farke, to bring in the right players this summer ahead of a fight to survive in the Premier League. Farke has masterminded a stunning season to get Leeds promoted.
A new goalkeeper, a centre-back, a replacement for Junior Firpo if he is not retained, a new midfielder, a 10, Manor Solomon or another winger permanently and a striker are all likely to be on the Leeds shortlist.
Newcastle fans react as Leeds eye midfielder Sean Longstaff
Reports have emerged in the last couple of days that Leeds are interested in signing Newcastle star Sean Longstaff. A player with 170 Premier League games to his name, but will be in the final year of the deal.
Longstaff has been a Newcastle player all his life, aside from a loan at Blackpool. But with a midfield trio ahead of him in Sandro Tonali, Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes, Longstaff needs to leave Newcastle.
Toon fans discussed the reports Leeds want to sign the midfielder in the summer, and supporters believe it would be a good move for The Whites. Other suggested how much he would cost, or potential swaps.
One Newcastle supporter responded to the reports by saying Longstaff would be “an amazing asset for them.” Another said “He would be a good experienced solid signing for Leeds at a reasonable price.”
Those of a Newcastle persuasion seem to think an exit for Longstaff is inevitable. However, he remains well-liked on Tyneside and one supporter said “£90m and he’s yours”, obviously rather tongue in cheek.
Another fan said he would “love it if we could get £20m for him.” It is unclear how much Leeds will have to pay for Longstaff in the coming weeks and months, but his contract could mean a cut-price figure.
This is not the first time Leeds have wanted to sign Longstaff
Ahead of the summer of 2024 with promotion still on the cards, reports said Leeds wanted Longstaff if they were promoted. Clearly, a player that Farke and the recruitment team have had their eyes on.
But this summer, presents a more approachable opportunity for Leeds. With Longstaff’s contract a year further on and Tonali’s return from suspension, it makes Longstaff more expendable at St. James’ Park.
Longstaff would be a good start for Leeds if promoted, but The Whites will need a whole lot more in terms of incoming signings if they are to stand a chance of remaining in the top tier, come 2025-26.
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