Leeds United's early season form and transfer business are under the spotlight after a busy summer. The club sits 8th in the Premier League with four points from two games, just two points behind leaders Manchester City.
Jaka Bijol believes Leeds United have built a squad capable of aiming high this season. Speaking to reporters, the defender pointed to the seven new signings made during the transfer window as a key reason for optimism. He stated the group has 'found some improvements' and that the new arrivals have 'raised our level a little bit'. The Slovenian international stressed that the primary goal remains securing Premier League survival in their second season back in the top flight. 'Our first focus is still to stay in the Premier League,' Bijol said. 'But, we have a really good squad to aim for something bigger as well.
Leeds United conducted a prolonged but ultimately unsuccessful pursuit of Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk. The player was 'super excited' about a potential move to Elland Road. Reporter Nizaar Kinsella, speaking to reporters Yorkshire, claimed Leeds 'were doing everything' to secure the 25-year-old's signature ahead of Tottenham Hotspur. Kinsella explained that Leeds offered Mudryk a significant role in the squad and negotiated hard with Chelsea over a loan deal. The outlet reports that the failure of the move was not due to a lack of effort or desire from the player's side. Instead, Kinsella suggested Chelsea's preference to do business with Tottenham, despite their London rivalry, was the decisive factor that scuppered Leeds' hopes.
Daniel Farke's side began their campaign with a solid 1-1 draw against Brentford at home. Dominic Calvert-Lewin's equaliser cancelled out Kevin Schade's opener to preserve an unbeaten start. This result followed an opening day victory, contributing to their current position in the top half of the standings. The immediate challenge is a trip to face Brighton & Hove Albion on September 5th. Brighton currently sit 9th, one place below Leeds, setting up a closely contested match. The team's early defensive solidity, with only one goal conceded, provides a platform for this away fixture.
