The financial impact of relegation is significant for the Whites, but it is also likely to demolish the playing squad this summer, with many players in Leeds’ first-team performing well above Championship level and anticipated to leave.
The fates of those with elite-level reputations or who have previously competed at an international level, in particular, remain uncertain. Elland Road is set to see a significant exodus.
Leeds will require a number of incomings in important positions this summer, with various positions on the menu for Leeds’ new-look boardroom under 49ers Enterprises ownership.
With that in mind, here are two feasible acquisitions Leeds should make for next season in the coming weeks.
Junior Firpo is Leeds’ current left-back, however he is paid well and is set to leave for greener pastures. He is also the club’s lone senior specialist. Manning, whose contract at Swansea City expires this month, could be a viable replacement. He is also available on a free move.
Last season, the 26-year-old appeared in 46 games across all competitions, recording five goals and ten assists while primarily playing as a left-back or left-wing-back in Russell Martin’s system.
He has, however, also played at left-centre-back, and his versatility could be important. The biggest advantage for Leeds is that he is a peak-age player on a free transfer with Championship experience.
He has appeared in over 200 games for clubs such as Swansea City, Queens Park Rangers, and Rotherham United. He is a no-brainer pick for the Whites this summer, regardless of who is in charge.
Leeds United have announced that Joel Robles will depart the club at the end of his contract this month, despite the fact that the 33-year-old has been asked back to train with the club throughout pre-season.
Illan Meslier is also expected to go for greener pastures, with his name being linked to a number of clubs around Europe.