How Leeds United’s midfield could look if top targets arrive | OneFootball

Leeds United could reshape their midfield this summer after an impressive 2025/26. Five senior options featured and Brenden Aaronson also dropped into the middle when required.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, recruitment chiefs are keen on Southampton youngster Shea Charles, with one free agent eyed and another virtually through the door. New additions could trigger difficult exits, and academy players are assessing their routes into senior football. Aaronson could face increased competition for that role.

Keep: Ethan Ampadu. The captain has signed a new four-year deal this summer, potentially the most important business, and the midfield can be built around him.

Keep: Ilia Gruev. A reliable squad option and natural cover for Ampadu, he should stay. Leeds might need to sell one midfielder to strengthen, though other, more profitable, if tougher, routes exist.

Loan: Charlie Crew. A difficult spell at Doncaster Rovers last season does not define him, and at 20 another loan could help his development.

Keep: Anton Stach. Outstanding in his debut campaign in West Yorkshire, further minutes should only improve him.

Sell: Ao Tanaka. If a suitable offer arrives, profit on a £3m signing is feasible. He was in and out last season and a new midfielder is wanted.

Keep: Sean Longstaff. Leeds could, as with Glen Kamara, consider a quick sale, however his Premier League experience and Stach-like running make him worth keeping.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk