Leeds United’s evolving XI after exits as Wilson nears and goalkeeper picture shifts | OneFootball

Leeds United’s strongest XI has shifted after key departures, with an attacking addition imminent and uncertainty around the number one spot.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, six weeks after signing off their Premier League return, that line-up already looks different. Leeds finished with a final day 3-1 defeat at West Ham, their safety having been secured with three games left, as West Ham dropped to the Championship.

On 10 June the retained list confirmed Illan Meslier would leave at contract end this summer, and loanee Facundo Buonanotte would return to Brighton.

Talks were ongoing with Karl Darlow, Alex Cairns and Sam Byram, whose contracts had expired, though all three are technically free agents.

At the start of this month Pascal Struijk completed a £20m move to Brighton, while Leeds closed in on Harry Wilson on a free transfer from Fulham. Wilson’s switch is complete, but awaits announcement.

With Karl Darlow out of contract despite talks, Lucas Perri is considered number one for now. Jayden Bogle remains first choice at right back, with James Justin a versatile alternative.

Joe Rodon is a lock in the seemingly preferred 5-3-2. Jaka Bijol, impressive in the second half of last season, looks best in the centre of a back three, with Justin likely to step in after Struijk’s exit. On the left, Gabi Gudmundsson is clear first choice and is one of four Leeds players at the World Cup.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk