With just 11 days remaining in the transfer window, Leeds United are actively seeking several new signings but understand that the longer they wait, the more challenging it becomes to finalize deals.
The loss of Georginio Rutter has only worsened Leeds’ difficult start to the season, having picked up just two points from their first two matches. However, their performance did improve in Saturday’s away draw against West Brom.
After conceding six goals in their first two games—three against Portsmouth and another three against Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup—a clean sheet was a positive for Daniel Farke, Illan Meslier, and Leeds fans.
However, the absence of Rutter and Crysencio Summerville was felt in the form of a noticeable lack of creativity on the pitch. Leeds will need to address this in the next week and a half if Farke hopes to secure promotion this season.
Stuart Dallas believes Leeds have been waiting for a key Premier League moment. With the top flight kicking off this weekend, clubs are required to submit their 25-man squads, with an update allowed before mid-September. This reveals which players will be involved this season and which won’t. Dallas speculates that Leeds may have been waiting for this moment to target players who are now out of favor.
He told Sky Sports (17/08, 2:56 PM): “In my opinion, the club will bring players in. They’re probably waiting for Premier League clubs to announce their 25-man squads before seeing who’s been left out.”
So, what does Leeds need to secure in the next 11 days to boost their promotion chances? While Junior Firpo has performed well in the opening games, he remains the only recognized left-footed left-back at the club, meaning Leeds need competition or cover in that position.
A replacement for Glen Kamara is also vital, particularly a player who can score from deep. But the most pressing need for Leeds is to find replacements for Rutter and Summerville within the next week.
Several players have been linked with the club, with the most recent being an exciting prospect: Sunderland’s Jack Clarke. Reports suggest he could return to Leeds, and his signing would be a strong start to the final days of the transfer window.
