Leeds United capped off an impressive summer of transfer business with two deadline day arrivals on Tuesday, with Melvin Bard and Jean-Matteo Bahoya joining on loan from OGC Nice and Eintracht Frankfurt respectively.
The pair became signings number six and seven for Leeds, following Harry Wilson, Tarik Muharemovic, James Trafford, Nico Elvedi and Michael Zetterer. Of that group, the expectation is at least three will upgrade Daniel Farke’s starting-XI from last season.
That could increase but having kept much of the core of his 2025/26 squad, Farke now has more quality and added depth to choose from. Below, the YEP has put together its own strongest XI and bench with all new signings involved in some capacity.
1. GK: James Trafford
Club-record signing has come straight in as No.1 and looks a serious upgrade on previous starters.
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2. CB: Joe Rodon
Injured at the moment but virtually ever-present when fit, with the athleticism to cover in behind and bomb on in that complicated hybrid role. | Getty Images
3. CB: Jaka Bijol
Thrives in the central centre-back role where he can go punch-for-punch with opposition strikers, usually winning. | Getty Images
4. CB: Tarik Muharemovic
Has been excellent since arriving from Sassuolo and at 23 still has so much potential to grow. | Getty Images
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5. RWB: Jayden Bogle
Gives Leeds great width and attacking quality out wide while also looking a steady bet defensively, with James Justin a dependable back-up. | Getty Images
6. CM: Ethan Ampadu
The club captain ties everything together and gives Leeds real bite in midfield.