Whatever happens, Leeds United will be searching for a full-back this summer, and there are a few Premier League free agents to take into account.
The Whites’ summer transfer policy is now difficult to understand because it primarily depends on the players who decide to stay and depart.
But regardless of what occurs, there are two crucial positions that need to be strengthened behind Junior Firpo and company: left and right back.
Leeds need a left-back to compete more with Firpo
In 2024, it would be an entirely fair judgement to say that no Leeds player has been better than Firpo for Daniel Farke.
His output on the left channel has been second to none and had he stayed fit for the first half of the season too, you’d argue Leeds would have finished in the top two.
However, his injury problems mean relying on him for a 46-game season is virtually impossible, so therefore the club need to have backup for him.
Sam Byram covered admirably, but it was clear so see that the free transfer signing isn’t great when it comes to progressing the ball and getting forward routinely.
Max Lowe released by Sheffield United, Leeds should take a look
Free agents from the Premier League should be an avenue that Leeds explore in terms of squad-building this summer, making low-cost improvements to the squad to add key depth.
Sheffield United have confirmed their intention to let some players leave upon the expiry of their contracts this summer, including left-back Max Lowe:
At face value, it’s a risk of a signing given that Lowe is another left-back that has been injury prone for some time, missing large portions of the last two seasons with setbacks.
If the club can see the value in Lowe and keep him fit, then they will be getting one of the better left-backs in the Championship, or solid depth for the top flight.
Costing nothing, there might not be too many better options for Leeds to look at for next season at left-back.
