Having secured promotion back to the Premier League, Leeds United must address every area of the squad this summer. Whether it’s bolstering the starting XI or enhancing depth, the club cannot afford complacency after a challenging campaign.
While manager Daniel Farke and his staff eye at least six signings, comparisons with fellow promoted sides underline the scale of the task. Southampton, Ipswich Town and Leicester City combined to invest around £300 million last season; Leeds may need to match or even exceed that figure, edging into nine-figure territory.
Areas Requiring Reinforcement
Key positions identified for upgrades include:
Goalkeeper – A reliable presence between the posts.
Right-back cover – Deputising for the first-choice option.
Centre-back – Adding steel to the defensive line.
Left-back – Potential replacement if Junior Firpo departs.
Central midfield – One or two additions to control the engine room.
Winger – A wide attacker, possibly Manor Solomon or similar.
Attacking midfielder – Creativity in the final third.
Proven striker – A reliable goalscorer to lead the line.
In addition to marquee signings, Leeds should explore free transfers to conserve funds for the recruitment drive ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Nelson Semedo: An Intriguing Free-Agent Option
Former Barcelona full-back Nelson Semedo will become available on a free transfer at season’s end after five years with Wolverhampton Wanderers. The 31-year-old Portuguese international has amassed 161 Premier League appearances and boasts 42 caps for his country.
Despite his age, Semedo’s experience could attract interest from various European leagues or destinations in the Middle East. Transfer specialist Ben Jacobs recently suggested on The Wolfpack Podcast that Leeds might monitor his availability closely.
“Leeds might be one to watch,” Jacobs noted. “The only thing that might deter them is that they seem to prefer a left-sided full-back. However, with Premier League football back on the agenda, they could opt for an experienced player of his calibre.
Jayden Bogle’s Role and Competition
Jayden Bogle enjoyed a stellar season after joining from Sheffield United and earned a place in the Championship Team of the Season alongside Ao Tanaka and Dan James. His consistent performances have cemented him as a candidate for a starting berth in Leeds’ top-flight return.
Although Bogle benefits from his Premier League exposure, he requires strong competition to maintain peak form. Semedo’s arrival, however, appears unlikely given his wage demands and the club’s preference for left-sided options. Consequently, Leeds may pursue alternatives to provide genuine rivalry without sidelining an emerging star.
