From Promotion to Preparation: Leeds’ Key Transfers for Premier League Survival

With the transfer window now open, Leeds United need to get things absolutely right. Reports suggest there could be over £100 million available to spend, and if used wisely, this could be a truly exciting summer for the club. But for Leeds to survive and thrive in the Premier League, the focus has to be on strengthening key areas with the right profiles of players.

Goalkeeper: Time to Move On.

Illan Meslier looked promising early in his Leeds career, but two poor Premier League seasons before our relegation seemed to shatter his confidence. He’s capable of pulling off stunning saves — think Leicester away last season or the Coventry game this year — but those moments are often overshadowed by costly errors.

The goalkeeper position is crucial, and with several names already being linked, Leeds must get this one right. Whether it’s a solid, experienced stopper or a rising talent with composure, this role can’t be overlooked.

Centre-Back: Depth & Physicality Needed

Centre-back is another area where Leeds need reinforcements. Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk, Ethan Ampadu, and Max Wöber all have top-flight experience — something that will be vital. However, Wöber could depart after struggling to re-establish himself following his loan spell, and Ampadu may well be pushed back into midfield, where Daniel Farke sees his best role.

That would leave us a bit thin at the back. Ideally, we need a physically strong, ball-playing centre-back — the kind of profile that may cost a premium but could anchor our defence.

Left-Back: Contingency Plans for Firpo?

With rumours swirling around Junior Firpo’s future, Leeds may need not just one, but two left-backs. Firpo’s attacking threat is undeniable, but defensively he can be exposed — something that’s far more dangerous in the Premier League.

A like-for-like replacement could be someone like Sergio Reguilón, who’s now a free agent after leaving Spurs. But Reguilón also has defensive question marks. Leeds may need to consider a more defensively solid option who can still contribute going forward, especially in Farke’s system.

Midfield: Finding the Next Rothwell (But Better)

Joe Rothwell has returned to Bournemouth after playing a vital role in our promotion. While he might not be Premier League-ready, his profile — a deep-lying midfielder who drives forward, picks passes, and delivers quality set-pieces — is exactly what Leeds should be targeting.

If we can find a player like Rothwell with a bit more physicality and top-flight experience, it could make a huge difference.

Number 10: Creativity with Work Rate

The attacking midfield role — the "number 10" — is another must-fill position. We need a player who not only has flair and creativity but also the work rate required to help us stay in the Premier League.

Brenden Aaronson could provide solid backup, bringing energy off the bench to close out games, but we need a starting-quality creator who can change games and make the difference between survival and another relegation battle.

Left Wing: Solomon or a Similar Threat?

With Manor Solomon returning to Spurs, Leeds may miss his end-of-season form — 9 goals and 11 assists speak volumes. If we can make his move permanent at the right price, we should. But if not, we must find someone with similar qualities: pace, flair, and the ability to beat a man and create chances for the likes of Dan James on the opposite

flank.

Striker: Partner or Backup for Piroe?

Piroe just won the Championship Golden Boot and looks like he could adapt well to the Premier League. He’s clinical, often outperforms his expected goals, and has the instincts of a top finisher.

Mateo Joseph, despite early promise, especially in pre-season, had a disappointing season. A loan — maybe to Rangers — could be the right move for his development. Leeds need to bring in a striker with Joseph’s physical traits but more experience in finding the net to provide depth and options alongside Piroe.

Squad Depth: Right-Back and Versatility

Jayden Bogle was one of our standout performers last season, but we need cover for him. Having someone to rotate or step in is essential. Sam Byram provides great backup on both flanks as a third choice, so a smart addition here would round out the defence nicely.

Final Thoughts

This transfer window is massive for Leeds United. We don’t just need bodies — we need the right profiles, Premier League experience, and players who suit Daniel Farke’s system. If we get it right, we’re not just surviving — we’re building something.

Let’s hope the recruitment team deliver.

What positions do you think Leeds should be looking to recruit for and what players would you look at? Let us know on our message board.