Leeds United are edging towards their third summer signing and what a signing it could be. The YEP understands they are close to reaching an agreement worth £40million plus add-ons with Manchester City for their goalkeeper James Trafford, making him their club-record transfer and the fourth-most expensive goalkeeper of all time.
Should Leeds get a deal for Trafford over the line, he will join Harry Wilson and Tarik Muharemovic in the new arrivals group, with arguably the three biggest holes in Daniel Farke’s squad all filled. And they will all have been filled by top targets, no less.
Farke’s squad is starting to shape up nicely with less than four weeks to go until their 2026/27 Premier League campaign kicks off at Nottingham Forest on August 22. Below, the YEP takes a look at how the starting-XI and bench could look if Leeds can get Trafford over the line.
13. Sub: Alex Cairns
Will be second-choice for the time being with Lucas Perri's move to Torino expected to arrive swiftly after Trafford's move to Leeds. | Getty Images
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14. Sub: Sebastiaan Bornauw
Belgian can operate in any of the back three positions and proved a dependable fourth choice last season. | Getty Images
15. Sub: James Justin
Mr Versatile can be a more defensive wing-back option on either side or cover in the central defensive roles.
16. Sub: Ao Tanaka
A solid bench option if Leeds need an extra body or a little more control in midfield. | Getty Images
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17. Sub: Sean Longstaff
The midfield substitute if Leeds need added energy and a strong box threat, as shown by his goal against Wrexham. | Getty Images
18. Sub: Willy Gnonto
The most natural cover option for Okafor as things stand, albeit a little less direct and a bit more intricate like Wilson. | Getty Images