Leeds United will need to explore various strategies to compensate for the loss of Crysencio Summerville this season.
With 31 goal contributions across all competitions, Summerville was the Championship’s standout player in the 2023/24 season. Finding a player within budget who can match those stats at this level will be a challenging task.
The club is actively pursuing at least one new winger, with Crystal Palace’s Jesurun Rak-Sakyi and Norwich City’s Jonathan Rowe on their radar.
A deal has been agreed with Palace for a season-long loan of Rak-Sakyi, though the move is not yet finalized as Sheffield United remains the frontrunner.
Leeds has also made progress in negotiations with Norwich for Rowe, but they face competition from Ligue 1 side Marseille, who are also interested.
Journalist makes significant Brenden Aaronson Leeds prediction
Leeds do have internal options to fill Summerville’s void, with Wilfried Gnonto and Dan James set to start against Portsmouth, forming a strong wing duo at this level.
However, with the departure of both Summerville and Jaidon Anthony, the team’s depth isn’t as strong as last season.
Brenden Aaronson has returned from his loan at Union Berlin, and based on his pre-season performance, Farke may consider using him on the left wing.
Aaronson showed flashes of brilliance during his first Premier League season with Leeds, and his performance at this level will be intriguing to watch.
In an exclusive interview with LeedsUnited.News, journalist Graeme Bailey suggested that Aaronson could become the best player in the Championship if used properly, which would be a significant step in replacing Summerville.
He stated: “Many Leeds players have been linked with moves, but I don’t see it happening now. Leeds aren’t encouraging it, and I don’t think they can afford to lose too many players. I believe they are in a relatively stable position now.
“Leeds haven’t been significantly weakened compared to before. Losing Summerville and Gray is tough, but Gray wasn’t playing in midfield; he was at right-back. Bogle’s arrival is a good signing.
“The issue is that the squad hasn’t improved dramatically, but I believe Brenden Aaronson is key. He has the potential to be the best player in the Championship next season and could be like a new signing for Leeds.
“He was not utilized properly during his previous stint at Leeds. I think Farke can unlock his full potential, and if he does, Aaronson could be the driving force behind Leeds’ promotion. He’s that talented.
“If he can provide service to Rutter, Piroe, Bamford, and Gnonto, it could be a game-changer. Playing him as a number 10 and giving him the freedom to operate could make him a sensational player for Leeds this season.”
Farke impressed with Aaronson in Leeds training
As expected, Farke has fielded numerous questions about Aaronson during pre-season after the player’s decision to return.
After Saturday’s match against Valencia, Farke expressed his satisfaction with Aaronson’s quality, commitment, and attitude in training.
He said: “They haven’t been with us for even two weeks yet. They started the training camp in Germany but need some time to fully shine for us, 100%. But all the signs are positive—really committed in training, great attitude.
“Of course, they need time to adapt. Max played a lot of games last season. Brenden played more towards the end of the season. They’re in good spirits and have something to prove. They need to convince everyone.
“They’re eager to prove they belong in our team, and we need to give them that chance. Right now, it’s up to them to deliver. I have to say, their behavior in training has been top class.”
