Leeds United’s transfer business will go a long way to deciding how they fare back in the Premier League and so the next few months will be massive. Chairman Paraag Marathe has already described it as the most important summer in decades and if reports are to be believed, plans are already being put in place to seriously strengthen Daniel Farke’s squad.
Sky Sports reported earlier this month Leeds could have around £100million to spend on first-team additions, with top-level signings expected in goal, defence, midfield and upfront. Links have since emerged to the likes of Everton’s Beto, Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone and Hidemasa Morita of Sporting CP.
But the YEP has stepped away from Leeds-specific transfer rumours and looked purely at players who could be available and who would significantly improve Farke’s side, while setting that budget of £100m to work with - every penny of which has been spent. Some of these will realistically be considered out of reach but the line-up below would have a great shot at surviving.
7. CM: Ao Tanaka
Probably the Leeds player most technically ready for the Premier League, although the physicality could prove a challenge. Quality from long range could also be a big factor in the odd game. | Mike Egerton/PA Wire
8. RW: Daniel James
Cemented himself as first-choice on the right with an incredible return of 12 goals and nine assists this season, forming an excellent understanding with Bogle that should be allowed to run in the Premier League. Devastating pace could also be a massive positive if Leeds opt for a more counter-attacking approach against top teams. | Getty Images
9. CAM: James McAtee (£25m)
Leeds are known to have held previous interest in McAtee and a report last weekend named Elland Road as a potential destination for the attacking midfielder, who looks set to leave Manchester City. Plenty of Premier League interest in the 22-year-old, who will likely cost around £25m. | OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images Photo: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
10. LW: Willy Gnonto
Coming back across to his more natural side, having spent much of the past two seasons over on the right competing with James. Showed glimpses of magic during Leeds' relegation campaign, a suggestion he is well suited to breaking down top-level defences with technical quality. | Steven Paston/PA Wire
11. ST: Liam Delap (£30m)
It must be stressed that at no point have Leeds been linked with interest in Delap, who looks set to leave Ipswich Town for a top-level Premier League club such as Arsenal, Newcastle or Chelsea. But the striker has a £30m release clause that surely any club needing a new No.9 might fancy triggering. Perhaps a better shot at regular football could trump European competition? It's highly unlikely, but this is a dream XI after all. | Getty Images