Leeds United are gearing up for a major push up the table this season, with the transfer window being of vital importance. Daniel Farke managed to secure Premier League survival last term, steering the Whites to a 14th place finish following a gruelling battle against relegation.
Harry Wilson First Signing
Now, attention at Elland Road has turned towards assembling a squad capable of improving on that and securing a top-half finish. Farke recognises his team requires new additions, with the club's leadership already demonstrating their ambition by completing an impressive piece of business. Leeds have reportedly finalised all arrangements to make Harry Wilson their first acquisition of the summer, tying him down to a four-year contract after the forward left Fulham as a free agent. But they cannot stop here.
Five Realistic Free Agent Targets
With a host of players becoming free agents today, the door is wide open for the recruitment team to launch further raids. Here are five more realistic free agents Leeds can wrap up deals for today.
Danilho Doekhi
Farke is keen to add physical strength to his defence, and Union Berlin centre-back Danilho Doekhi matches the profile. The 28-year-old defender is available for free after his contract ran out. He was linked with a move to Elland Road in January, though speculation surrounding the Dutchman has quietened somewhat recently. Nonetheless, signing Doekhi for nothing would provide instant leadership and technical security to Farke's backline.
Stefan Ortega
A sudden reshuffle between the sticks is underway at Leeds, with Illan Meslier departing the club as a free agent. To address the vacancy, Leeds should look no further than Stefan Ortega, who is leaving Nottingham Forest, also as a free agent. Known for his composure and precision with his feet, Ortega is precisely the type of ball-playing goalkeeper Farke requires. Securing his services on a free would address a squad requirement, even if he serves as back-up to a more expensive goalkeeper.
Tyrell Malacia
With cover on the left side of defence a recurring problem last season, a move for Tyrell Malacia makes plenty of sense. The 26-year-old left-back has left Manchester United after falling out of favour at Old Trafford. Though his recent seasons were disrupted by injuries, a new beginning under Farke, a manager known for reviving careers, could tap into the top-flight quality Malacia possesses. As a low-risk, high-reward proposition, he is an ideal target.
Julian Brandt
After Wilson's signing, Julian Brandt is understood to be Leeds' next key target. The Borussia Dortmund playmaker, 30, boasts the creative quality Farke has needed for his attacking setup and offers considerable versatility, capable of playing on the wing and behind the striker. While other European giants are showing interest, Leeds can offer Brandt a central, talismanic role, which could prove pivotal in completing this mutually beneficial transfer. No formal offer has been put to the player as of yet.
Yves Bissouma
Rounding out the shortlist is a midfield enforcer who could transform Leeds' style of play. Premier League retained lists have confirmed that Tottenham Hotspur have allowed midfield destroyer Yves Bissouma to depart on a free transfer. Despite a dip in performances and fitness problems hampering his final campaign in north London, he is a dream fit for Farke's engine room. If Farke can channel Bissouma's raw ability into a disciplined, anchoring role next to Ethan Ampadu, bringing him to Elland Road would provide Leeds with a battle-hardened engine room capable of truly impressing this season.
