Leeds United given four-position summer transfer list as 'important' deal already confirmed
Leeds United can start strengthening Daniel Farke’s squad from Monday.
Former Leeds United striker Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink has identified four key areas to strengthen during the summer transfer window.
The Whites are set for another important summer as they look to build on last season’s 14th-placed Premier League finish. A total of 10 first-team players were added to Daniel Farke’s squad last year with the upcoming window expected to be a little quieter, at least in terms of numbers.
What Leeds do need is difference-makers in attack, with chairman Paraag Marathe recently telling the YEP and other local media there will be fewer additions but of a higher quality. They remain in need of a right-wing/No.10 profile having missed out on Harry Wilson last summer, with Hasselbaink highlighting other areas which could be improved.
“Yeah, they did exceptionally well. I think they need more quality in depth,” Hasselbaink told 10bet. “Dominic Calvert-Lewin did magnificently well upfront, but I think they need right and left wingers who can really deliver.
“Maybe a little bit more power in midfield, too. And a goalkeeper - the goalkeeper they took from France [Lucas Perri] didn’t really work out. Karl Darlow took over and did exceptionally well, but I think they need to strengthen permanently in that area.”
‘Important’ Leeds United deal already confirmed
Leeds have already announced what could prove their most important piece of business all summer. In his roundtable with local media last week, Marathe revealed club captain Ethan Ampadu had signed a new four-year contract running until 2030.
Ampadu’s previous deal expired in 2027 and although a 12-month extension option was present, Elland Road chiefs secured a longer-term commitment. Ampadu was voted Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year last month, his importance to Farke’s squad clear.
“Yeah, well, he's the captain,” former Leeds striker Hasselbaink added. “Very important, very good. He's a proper leader. He can play centre-half, he can play in midfield. Yeah, very smooth business. Very well done. Very important.”
On Wednesday, Leeds confirmed they were in talks with three of Ampadu’s first-team teammates over possible contract extensions. Karl Darlow, Alex Cairns and Sam Byram are all set to become free agents this summer, as things stand, but discussions are ongoing. Illan Meslier, meanwhile, will leave the club.
The summer transfer window officially opens on Monday, June 15, at which point Premier League clubs can start doing business. Leeds are expected to complete the bulk of their recruitment work after the 2026 World Cup, which ends in mid-July.