Georginio Rutter’s departure has pushed Leeds United’s summer sales beyond £130 million, following the Frenchman’s move to Brighton, and Luciano Becchio has weighed in with his thoughts.
Rutter becomes the eighth permanent sale for Leeds this summer, with his £40 million transfer setting a new record as Brighton’s most expensive signing. Prior to this, Leeds had already secured significant fees from the sales of Crysencio Summerville and Archie Gray.
The combined sales of Rutter, Summerville, and Gray have brought Leeds’ earnings to an impressive £105 million upfront, with the potential for more through add-ons. Summerville’s transfer to West Ham could reach £34 million if performance-related clauses are met.
Additionally, Luis Sinisterra’s permanent move to Bournemouth earlier this year will also contribute to this year’s financial books. Meanwhile, Glen Kamara and Charlie Cresswell have moved to France, and Marc Roca and Diego Llorente have joined Real Betis. Kris Klaesson has signed with Polish side Rakow. Some reports suggest that Leeds have amassed a staggering £138 million from these player sales.
Luciano Becchio has voiced his opinion on the type of player Leeds should target next. Daniel Farke has expressed a desire to bring in four new signings before the August 30 deadline, with a full-back and a midfielder among his priorities. Farke is also seeking replacements for Rutter and Summerville, which won’t come cheap. Players like Jack Clarke, Michael Lang, Calvin Stengs, and Jonathan Rowe are reportedly on Leeds’ radar.
However, Leeds legend Becchio believes the club should focus on signing a goal-scoring striker. On Tuesday evening, he shared on Instagram: “We need a goal-scoring striker. Marching on Together.”
While Leeds may not lack strikers in terms of numbers, the quality of their options is a concern. The squad includes Patrick Bamford, Joel Piroe, and Mateo Joseph, with young Luca Thomas also emerging. Despite this depth, questions remain about whether Leeds have the firepower needed to push for the Championship title. Joseph shows promise but has only scored one league goal, while Bamford’s fitness is a lingering issue, and Piroe has struggled to replicate his Swansea form. Following Becchio’s advice might be wise for Leeds.
