Leeds United’s strongest XI after Harry Wilson signing and exits reshape squad | OneFootball

Leeds United have completed their first signing of the summer, with Harry Wilson joining on a free after his Fulham contract expired. Announced on Wednesday afternoon, the Welsh winger’s arrival reshapes the projected strongest XI and bench, according to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk.

Leeds came close to a deal on deadline day last summer before Fulham pulled out. Wilson then delivered 10 goals and seven assists in a standout individual campaign.

Wilson is the first arrival following the exits of Pascal Struijk, who joined Brighton for £20m, and goalkeeper Illan Meslier, plus last season’s Brighton loanee Facundo Buonanotte. Meslier is set to move to Arsenal as back-up keeper.

Meanwhile, Karl Darlow, Alex Cairns and right back Sam Byram are technically free agents after their contracts expired, with talks ongoing with all three. Their futures remain uncertain.

In the projected XI, Lucas Perri is in goal, with Jayden Bogle at right back. Darlow ended last season as first choice but is out of contract, so Perri is considered number one at present. Bogle is viewed as the clear pick, with James Justin an able alternative across the back line.

Joe Rodon features in a seemingly preferred 5-3-2, alongside Jaka Bijol and James Justin. Bijol, a summer 2025 signing, shone in the second half of last season and looks most effective centrally in a back three. Struijk’s departure likely opens the door for Justin to start.

Gabi Gudmundsson is the first choice at left back and is one of four Leeds players at the World Cup. The selection also involves a big call, with an attacker moved to the bench.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk