Leeds United’s four key summer calls as window opens, including Pascal Struijk future | OneFootball

Leeds United can officially get to work in the summer market today, with most business likely after the World Cup, though swift movement cannot be ruled out.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, chairman Paraag Marathe expects fewer signings than last year’s 10, with an emphasis on higher quality. After strong defensive work in 2025, the focus is on attacking difference-makers.

Pascal Struijk enters the final year of his contract, which will fuel speculation until he signs or departs. A free in 2018, he is among the most saleable assets, yet selling a left-footed, ball-playing centre-back would demand a costly, high-calibre replacement with no guarantees. Securing a new deal would rival the recent tie-down of Ethan Ampadu.

Up front, Leeds still need a right-wing or No.10 profile after missing out on Harry Wilson, who is now a free agent. A near £40m January bid for Jorgen Strand Larsen suggests another striker is sought, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin needs real competition. The question remains whether they can land a big-money attacker, the level of Igor Paixao or Rodrigo Muniz.

Goalkeeper is the most uncertain area. Illan Meslier has left, Alex Cairns and Karl Darlow are out of contract, with talks ongoing and Darlow attracting interest, while £16million 2025 arrival Lucas Perri has underwhelmed. Decisions are needed on renewals, a new No.1, and whether to cut losses on Perri. Rory Mahady could step up to a fourth-choice role.

Exits will be required. Moving on fringe options such as Joel Piroe or Willy Gnonto could raise funds without weakening the XI, and returning loanee Joe Gelhardt may generate profit. Fan favourites like Gnonto or Ao Tanaka might draw bids, but tighter Squad Cost Rules make precision vital.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk