Leeds United have moved quickly to replace Pascal Struijk after his £20 million switch to Brighton and Hove Albion. The Elland Road side are now eyeing Sassuolo centre-back Tarik Muharemovic as their top defensive target this summer, with Karl Darlow’s free transfer to Manchester United also imminent.

What’s happening at Elland Road?

Struijk’s departure leaves a gaping hole in Leeds’ backline, and the club is acting fast. According to Yorkshire Evening Post, Muharemovic is their preferred option to step into the void. The 24-year-old has impressed in Serie A, and his arrival would signal a clear shift in Leeds’ defensive strategy. The club is also weighing up a new goalkeeper, with Parma’s Zion Suzuki and Manchester City’s James Trafford both on their radar. Fringe players could be moved on to free up funds, while left wing-back cover remains a priority.

Leeds sit 14th in the Premier League with 47 points from 38 games, 38 points behind leaders Arsenal. Their recent form reads LWDWD, and they’ve scored 49 goals while conceding 56 this season.

Why does this matter for Leeds United?

A defensive revamp is long overdue at Elland Road. Struijk’s exit, combined with Darlow’s likely departure, means Leeds must act decisively to steady their backline. Muharemovic’s potential arrival would add steel to a unit that’s leaked too many goals this term. The club’s recruitment team is under pressure to get deals done before the window slams shut, with every move now scrutinised under the microscope.

Who else could join or leave?

Goalkeepers are a clear need, and Suzuki’s reported availability could solve that issue. Trafford, meanwhile, remains a wildcard after his loan stint at Burnley. Left wing-back is another area crying out for reinforcement, with options like Junior Firpo still unsettled. Leeds could also cash in on fringe players to balance the books, though any sales must align with their long-term vision.

What happens next?

The next fortnight will define Leeds’ summer. If Muharemovic and a new goalkeeper arrive, the defensive reshuffle could begin in earnest. But if targets slip through their fingers, the club risks another season of defensive fragility. The clock is ticking, and every decision now carries extra weight as Leeds chase Premier League survival for a third straight season.