Leeds United dream defence for next season with World Cup hero and Pascal Strujik replacement | OneFootball

Leeds United are accelerating their defensive rebuild after a 14th-place return to the Premier League, with a new goalkeeper and left back targeted. The need for a centre-back has sharpened following Pascal Strujik’s exit.

Strujik joined Brighton last month, a sale completed before 30 June to stay within Profit and Sustainability Rules. The 14th-place finish and an FA Cup semi-final run boosted income and, with that sale, kept Leeds inside limits. The Mail reports that Leeds have approached Borussia Monchengladbach over Nico Elvedi.

Another centre-half was on the list even before Strujik left after Daniel Farke’s mid-season switch from a back four to 3-5-2. Elvedi, 29, impressed for Switzerland at this summer’s World Cup and can operate as the anchor or on the right of a back three.

He made 271 clearances in 33 Bundesliga games and, at 6ft 2in, looks suited to the Premier League. He could also be better value than other reported options, with Southampton believed to want a hefty fee for Shea Charles despite the Northern Ireland international having one year left on his deal.

Leeds also want a new goalkeeper after Illan Meslier’s departure, while Karl Darlow’s future is unresolved. Japan international Zion Suzuki of Parma looks a strong candidate after another impressive World Cup, and personal terms are said to be agreed, with a transfer viewed as likely.

A potential 2026/27 backline could read: Zion Suzuki in goal, with Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon, Jaka Bijol, Nico Elvedi and Gabriel Gudmundsson.

Source: Leeds Live