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There could be a small squad overhaul at Elland Road next season. Marcelo Bielsa has already said that he doesn’t expect a number of his players to reach the same levels ever again, and that could be a sign that change is afoot at Leeds United.
The Whites heartbreakingly missed out on promotion this season, so going forward they will want to strengthen in order to get over the line and end their 15-year wait for top-flight football.
Who retains their spot?
Kiko Casilla: Despite a poor showing in recent weeks, Casilla is on far too much money for the Whites to ditch him after just six months.
Luke Ayling: One of Bielsa’s most consistent performers. He has transformed into one of the league’s best right-backs.
Liam Cooper: The United captain has been incredible under Bielsa, and he will still be in the heart of the defence in 2019/20.
Ezgjan Alioski: The Whites have so many options at left-back. They certainly don’t need a new signing, but Bielsa may have a headache in choosing between Barry Douglas and Alioski.
Pablo Hernandez: The club’s Player of the Season hasn’t looked like slowing down yet, therefore he has to keep his spot.
Tyler Roberts: Looked incredible in the attacking midfield position towards the back end of this term, and aged just 20 he can still improve drastically in a variety of roles.
Mateusz Klich: The Pole had a breakout campaign under Bielsa, and he was the only player to start all 46 Championship games for the Yorkshire club.
Kemar Roofe: Leeds’ top scorer, there is no reason he can’t hit 20 goals next year if he can stay fit.
Who will be the new signings?
Yoann Barbet: Although Pontus Jansson has been a dependable partner for Cooper for multiple years now, the Swede may well be leaving Elland Road in pursuit of top tier football this summer, with Yoann Barbet being heavily linked in recent weeks.
Ander Iturraspe: Kalvin Phillips was unreal last season, so good that it’s hard to believe Leeds can fight off Premier League interest for their midfield general. It could be a case of replacing youth with experience for the Whites as they have been linked with La Liga veteran Ander Iturraspe.
Callum O’Dowda: Jack Harrison has returned to Man City, so a gap has opened up on the left flank. Mallik Wilks could fill that spot upon his return from loan, but Leeds are more likely to look towards Callum O’Dowda, who is a rumoured target.