Leeds United fans got a look at all five new signings on Saturday as Daniel Farke’s side drew 0-0 against Manchester United in Stockholm. An encouraging performance saw all summer arrivals impress on debut, with two great saves from Tom Heaton preventing one of Jayden Bogle or Largie Ramazani grabbing what could have been a winner.
A sixth arrival is expected soon, with a €20million (£17.3m) deal for Hoffenheim midfielder Anton Stach agreed in principle, while more are expected to follow. Focus will soon turn to a first-choice goalkeeper and attacking reinforcements, with the YEP reporting this week on interest in Feyenoord’s Brazilian winger Igor Paixão.
Farke’s Premier League squad is starting to take shape and with almost a full month until Everton arrive at Elland Road on August 18, there is plenty of time to strengthen further. Below, the YEP has attempted to draw up a strongest XI if recruitment chiefs get the men they want.
1. GK: Lucas Perri
Leeds got a deal over the line for Perri earlier this summer and he has come straight in as first-choice. A few early questions so far but the Brazilian should add plenty of experience across the campaign. | Getty Images
2. RB: Jayden Bogle
Earned another shot at the Premier League following an excellent 2024/25 campaign and looked great so far, linking up really well with whoever is ahead of him at right-wing. Test will be how he copes with the world's best wingers running at him, although one-v-one defending has improved a lot. | Manchester United via Getty Imag
3. CB: Joe Rodon
Ever-present Rodon has earned his shot at Premier League football, having rarely been given a chance at Spurs. Could easily have won Player of the Season and his skillset should translate well in the top-flight. | Manchester United via Getty Imag
4. CB: Jaka Bijol
Leeds confirmed the permanent signing of Bijol in June and he should come into the starting-XI from now onwards. Has looked a real step up on either side of the centre-back pairing and settling in nicely. A huge physical presence. | Getty Images
5. LB: Gabriel Gudmundsson
Like Bijol, the 26-year-old Sweden international is vastly experienced and entering the prime of his career. Has looked impressive so far and should only improve as he adjusts to the Premier League and his new club. | Getty Images
6. CDM: Ethan Ampadu
Has been a huge miss after that opening-weekend win over Everton due to a knee injury, proving once again how important he remains at the base of Farke's midfield. Is expected to remain one of the first names on the teamsheet once he returns. | Getty Images