Work on reshaping the Leeds United squad will have already started ahead of the summer regardless of whether the Whites are in the Premier League or the Championship at the start of next season.
The Whites were always set for major surgery this summer anyway, with plenty of loan players returning to the club after Victor Orta’s relegation loan clause allowed eight senior members to go, temporarily.
Six of those will still be on our books when the summer window opens, given Robin Koch has agreed to join Frankfurt and Luis Sinisterra, to Bournemouth permanently. It means there will be cash to spend.
If Leeds get promoted, the Whites will want additions and Daniel Farke is likely to target full-back areas, central midfield, a no.10 and possibly a striker. A permanent deal for defender Joe Rodon, is a necessity.
Leeds United need a central midfielder in the summer
At the start of the season, central midfield looked a pretty well-covered position after the signings of Ethan Ampadu, Glen Kamara and Ilia Gruev – as well as the breakthrough talent of teenager Archie Gray.
But, Gray has been moved to right-back and Ampadu alongside Rodon at centre-back. It leaves little cover for Gruev and Kamara, who are tallying up the workload. Both are regulars for their countries.
So, it is crucial Leeds sign a central midfielder – and a player Leeds fans will obviously know well is likely to be available. Kalvin Phillips joined West Ham on loan in January from Man City. But he’s really struggling.
Mistakes against Bournemouth on his debut and then Manchester United, a red card against Nottingham Forest and then conceding a penalty in Newcastle’s 4-3 comeback win has made his loan a nightmare.
Kalvin Phillips talks are underway as Leeds make their move
Sports Zone claim on Twitter that Leeds, along with two other clubs are interested, Leeds are said to have opened talks to land the Manchester City midfielder. Reports claim City want much of the £42m back.
If true, a clear indication that the Whites would be willing to have him back in the side. Phil Hay said over the weekend that there is a possibility Leeds could be interested, but only if the club are promoted.
Andy Townsend recently said that Leeds is the only club that Phillips could rejoin if he is going to kickstart his career. But this is a clear indication now, that Leeds are interested and are considering a move for him.
Of course, a move that would delight fans. A player that Liam Cooper has said he “loves to pieces”. But, it would cost a lot of cash and if a move was to occur, his wages would be big. Daniel Farke must decide.