Leeds United boss Daniel Farke is keen to strengthen his defence this summer, with the club actively in the market for a new goalkeeper and a left-back.
What happened?
The Whites secured their Premier League status comfortably, finishing 14th last season with 47 points from 38 games, and a recent form of LWDWD. However, Farke is keen to ensure his side sidestep any second-season wobble, with bolstering the defence understood to be the club's primary focus this summer.
Why it matters for Leeds United
Pascal Struijk's departure to Brighton has left a considerable gap in Farke's defence, having featured in 34 league matches last season and proved instrumental in the club's survival bid. The fan favourite departed Elland Road for Brighton last month in a deal worth an initial £18million, with Leeds compelled to sanction the sale before 30 June to ensure they remained compliant with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.
What comes next?
One candidate who appears perfectly suited to Farke's 3-5-2 system is Borussia Monchengladbach centre-back Nico Elvedi, who has caught the eye for Switzerland at this summer's World Cup. The highly-regarded 29-year-old would deliver a vital mix of physicality, leadership and experience to Elland Road, and is valued at around €12m (£10m). As of now, Leeds United are 38 points behind leaders Arsenal, and with 49 goals scored and 56 conceded, they will be looking to improve their goal difference of -7. The final component of Farke's defensive rebuild would be a new goalkeeper after Illan Meslier's departure and the uncertainty surrounding Karl Darlow, with Japan international Zion Suzuki appearing a perfect candidate to assume responsibilities between the posts.
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