After securing Premier League survival and reaching the FA Cup semi-finals, this summer represents a huge moment for Leeds United. Survival was the minimum objective following promotion, but staying in the division is only the beginning. The next challenge is far more difficult: building a squad capable of avoiding the dreaded second-season collapse.
Daniel Farke deserves enormous credit for stabilising Leeds and restoring belief around Elland Road. The club showed resilience throughout the 2025/26 campaign and finished comfortably clear of relegation after a strong second half of the season. But there were still obvious weaknesses in the squad, particularly in defence, creativity and attacking depth.
Leeds now face a critical transfer window. The club’s owners are expected to back Farke again financially, but recruitment needs to be smarter than simply spending heavily. Leeds need players who fit the system, improve the athletic level of the squad and give the team enough quality to survive comfortably again next season.
Leeds Need More Premier League Quality in Defence
Although Leeds survived, they still conceded too many soft goals throughout the season. There were periods where the team defended well collectively, but against stronger opposition the lack of Premier League-level defensive quality became obvious.
Jaka Bijol showed promise after arriving last summer, while Ethan Ampadu remained one of the side’s most important leaders. But Leeds still need another centre-back with pace and top-flight experience.
Leeds should prioritise:
A quick, dominant centre-back
More depth at full-back
Greater athleticism across the defensive line
Reports have linked Leeds with defenders from the Bundesliga market again, which makes sense given Farke’s familiarity with Germany. The club have reportedly shown interest in Union Berlin defender Danilho Doekhi, who would add physicality and experience.
If Leeds want to establish themselves as a long-term Premier League side, defensive improvement has to be the starting point.
Another Striker Is Essential
Dominic Calvert-Lewin performed an important role this season, scoring…
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