Leeds United look set for their most exciting summer in recent memory as preparations get underway for their Premier League return. The transfer window officially opened on Sunday June 1 and so business can now be done, albeit only for 10 days before the main window from June 16.
Elland Road arrivals are not expected to come during this first mini-window but that doesn’t mean nothing is happening in West Yorkshire, with recruitment chiefs hard at work identifying targets. And as is inevitable at this time of year, reports of transfer interest are starting to gather pace.
Links to Leeds will only intensify as the summer rumbles on but there is already so much excitement surrounding who could be walking out at Elland Road next season. And with that in mind, the YEP has attempted to draw up a dream starting line-up, if those rumours prove to be true.
7. CDM: Anton Stach
The 6ft 4ins German was considered one of the Bundesliga's best midfielders last season already looks comfortable and a real step up in quality. Played in a more box-to-box role so far this season but can just as comfortably drop in alongside Ampadu. | Getty Images
8. RW: Bilal El Khannouss
Still a Leicester player going into deadline day but expected to attract plenty of interest and still on Leeds' radar, with attacking creativity needed. Leicester thought to want around £35m, so the question is whether Elland Road chiefs would be willing to stump up the cash. Would link up brilliantly with the overlapping Bogle if indeed he is signed. | Getty Images
9. CAM: Eduard Spertsyan
Named as a possible 'focus' for Leeds before Monday's deadline by The Athletic and would certainly add creativity. The 25-year-old Armenian international already has four goals and seven assists in six games this season and is expected to make the step up to a top European league imminently. Valued by Transfermarkt at around £22m. | AFP via Getty Images
10. LW: Noah Okafor
Leeds confirmed the £18m signing of Okafor earlier this week and with El Khannouss on the right, Farke needs a direct runner down the left for balance, which is why the Swiss international gets the nod over Willy Gnonto in this particular team. Been in the goals throughout pre-season and will hope to replicate that form in Leeds colours. Photo: David Price
11. ST: Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Fitness is the obvious caveat but Calvert-Lewin has proven an excellent Premier League-level striker during nine years at Everton, and has got in some great positions so far this season. With proper service from the likes of El Khannouss and Spertsyan, the 28-year-old could thrive. | Getty Images