What Leeds United’s recruitment chiefs have been doing behind-the-scenes while away in Germany

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Leeds United’s recruitment team won’t get a moments rest until the window slams shut at the end of August.

Though it is unlikely the final month of the window will be as busy as last summer, there is still plenty of work to do regarding both incomings and outgoings.

Six of Leeds‘ nine signings 12 months ago did not arrive until after the start of the season, but the club have already brought in four new faces this time around.

Daniel Farke, Paraag Marathe and co were all confident Leeds would be able to put themselves in a better position to start the season fast this time around.

While business may not be completely done before the opening game against Portsmouth, the squad is looking in brilliant shape following friendly wins over Harrogate Town and Hannover.

• READ MORE: Daniel Farke has just made a decision which surely confirms ‘world class’ player is staying at Leeds United

What Leeds’ recruitment chiefs have been doing in Germany

Leeds are currently out in Germany for their 2024 pre-season tour, but that does not mean work has stopped behind-the-scenes.

In fact, members of Leeds’ hierarchy have actually been out in Germany alongside the squad, though it isn’t exactly clear who that may be.

Gretar Steinsson, Jordan Miles and Nick Hammond all currently have a major say in Leeds’ recruitment, and according to the Yorkshire Evening Post, they have been having meetings out in Germany regarding the market.

This would certainly align with news of Leeds’ latest transfer target, with an offer of around £3.3 million having been rejected by FC Koln for Dejan Ljubicic.

Leeds are expected to return with a fresh offer for the 26-year-old, and being out in Germany where he currently plays his football could speed the deal along.

Alongside full-back, central midfield is currently one of Farke’s top priorities when it comes to strengthening the squad.

• READ MORE: Club ready to ‘step up’ interest in ‘brilliant’ Leeds United player and he’s ‘keen’ on the move

What Leeds target Ljubicic has said about his future

Just 24 hours before news of Leeds’ bid reached the press, Ljubicic was asked to give an update on his future at the Bundesliga 2 side.

Though the Austrian insisted he remains focused on doing his best for Koln, he certainly didn’t close the door on a potential exit this summer.

He said: “I am here and I am concentrating on the essentials, namely that I am performing well again. I just want to give it my all in training and offer myself to the new coach. That is the only thing that counts at the moment.

“Football is a fast-moving business. I am in contact with those responsible and my contract with FC runs until 2025 – I am here and I am happy.”