Leeds United’s evolving best XI as exits confirmed and Harry Wilson deal awaits announcement | OneFootball

Leeds United’s strongest XI and bench already look different after early-summer departures and an incoming attacker. As reported by yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, this is how the picture stands.

Six weeks on from their Premier League return concluding, survival was secured with three games to spare before a final-day 3-1 loss at West Ham. The Hammers go down, Leeds prepare for year two back in the top flight.

On June 10 the retained list confirmed goalkeeper Illan Meslier will leave when his contract expires this summer, while loanee Facundo Buonanotte heads back to Brighton. Talks are ongoing with Karl Darlow, Alex Cairns and Sam Byram, all now technically free agents.

A major exit followed as Pascal Struijk joined Brighton in a £20m deal. Meanwhile Leeds have closed in on Harry Wilson as a free transfer from Fulham, a move that is done but yet to be announced.

With Darlow out of contract after finishing last season as first-choice, the goalkeeping picture is unsettled. Lucas Perri has to be considered number one at present.

Jayden Bogle is clear first-choice right back, with the versatile James Justin an alternative across the defence. At centre-back Joe Rodon is a clear pick, Jaka Bijol impressed in the middle of a back three, and Justin likely steps into the XI after Struijk’s departure. Gabi Gudmundsson remains first-choice left back and is among four Leeds players at the World Cup.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk