Leeds United: What Do They Need Before the Summer Window Closes?

As we approach the closing of the summer transfer window, Leeds United have been linked to several players. The glaring need right now is Left-Back, with a close second being a forward.

The board has done a phenomenal job this summer of replacing key members while bringing in players familiar with Jesse Marsch’s tactics and philosophy. The three signings from RB Leipzig have been huge in assisting the Marsch way to others.

Brendan Aaronson, Tyler Adams, and Rasmus Kristensen have had experience under Marsch through RB Leipzig and New York Red Bulls. In addition to assisting the progress of Marsch’s system, these players have filled areas of need.

Regarding areas of need, Leeds may have more than one due to injuries.

Leeds Must Work on a Deal for Another Striker

Through most of the summer window, Leeds had been salivating over the opportunity to sign Charles De Ketelaere. De Ketelaere would have filled the depth for striker while having the ability to fill other forward positions.

Ultimately, De Ketelaere chose to go to AC Milan and Leeds were left with the in-house options at forward.

On Saturday, Patrick Bamford seemed to aggravate his groin and had to be taken out early in the first half. Young striker, Joe Gelhardt, was not fit enough to be on the bench for the match. This meant that Daniel James would enter and play out of position as the number 9.

If Marsch and the board were looking for a striker before, one would think the desperation may increase.

Gelhardt and Bamford should be available to train this week and that may be the final test before seriously pursuing another forward.

Leeds Needs to Invest in Another Left-Back

This is the real area of concern for the season. Junior Firpo is the only true left-back on the senior squad and is currently injured for several weeks.

Last season, Firpo did not impress in his introduction to the Elland Road faithful. He had some flashes of offensive creativity and pace, but not often enough.

Marsch seemed to take a liking to Firpo at the end of the season and did not pursue a left-back in the window thus far. Firpo had a nice start to the pre-season before suffering an injury, but is that enough to trust him for the entire season?

The club could use depth at the position, even when Firpo is healthy. It is imperative to bring in some experience in the position to secure stability in the backline.

As poor as Firpo played last season, he also showed that he cannot stay healthy. This should further provide motivation to sign a left-back before the window closes.