Pascal Struijk future central to Leeds United’s defensive transfer plans | OneFootball

Pascal Struijk is into the final year of his Leeds United contract, a decision that could shape this summer’s defensive recruitment.

According to Leeds Live, last season’s resilience across a back three of Jaka Bijol, Joe Rodon and Struijk frames today’s dilemma.

With 12 months remaining, Leeds are likely to try to extend, otherwise he could be considered for sale. He drew at least one approach last year and, given his status, fresh interest is expected.

Daniel Farke labelled him a core player last summer and may feel the same if the back three remains. Leeds arguably need another centre-back anyway, with James Justin and Sebastiaan Bornauw the back-ups.

If no renewal follows, United may cash in, since he can sign a pre-contract with overseas clubs from January. Developed over eight years, losing him for free would feel a missed opportunity.

There is a chance Bornauw departs, though he may be less likely to move than Struijk given he joined last year and cover is thin. He played 12 Premier League games, starting five, and has been linked in Germany.

Max Wober remains under contract after an injury-hit loan at Werder Bremen that brought three senior games. A mutual termination would not surprise, though wages could complicate matters, and he is unlikely to feature for Farke, underlining the need for a new centre-back and the weight of Struijk’s call.

Source: Leeds Live