Leeds United face several important decisions in the weeks ahead as preparations intensify for the 2026/27 campaign.
One position that could soon demand urgent attention is the goalkeeping department. With Karl Darlow reportedly attracting interest from Manchester United on a free transfer, Leeds may be forced to rethink their plans and accelerate their search for a new number one.
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Elsewhere, there appears to be genuine momentum in Leeds’ recruitment efforts. The Whites are believed to be making significant progress in their pursuit of Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande and could be edging closer to a club-record deal after reportedly reaching an agreement on personal terms with the highly-rated centre-back.
However, the potential arrival of Diomande may require a major outgoing transfer. As a result, Leeds are now laying the groundwork for the possible departure of Pascal Struijk this summer.
Read More: Major Ousmane Diomande update as Leeds eye record-breaking transfer
Leeds set valuation for Pascal Struijk
Pascal Struijk has entered the final year of his contract and remains undecided about extending his stay at Elland Road beyond this summer.
The Dutch defender is understood to be open to seeking a new challenge, despite Leeds’ desire to retain him for next season.
Nevertheless, the club are willing to cash in if Struijk opts against signing a new deal, and their pursuit of Diomande suggests they are already planning for life without him.
According to TeamTalk, Leeds have established an asking price for the 26-year-old ahead of the transfer window.
The Whites are expected to demand between £20 million and £25 million for the Dutch international this summer.
If Struijk intends to move on, Leeds are prepared to act swiftly rather than allow uncertainty to linger. The club are open to a sale, provided an acceptable offer arrives in the coming weeks.
Leeds must show a ruthless streak
Daniel Farke is determined to keep Leeds progressing and recognises that further improvements are needed if the club are to build on their Premier League development.
With doubts continuing to surround Struijk’s future, Leeds may need to take control of the situation instead of leaving the final decision entirely in the player’s hands. Securing Diomande would provide clarity in a crucial area of the squad while reinforcing the club’s commitment to raising standards.
The Sporting Lisbon defender is widely viewed as one of Europe’s brightest defensive prospects, and his arrival would significantly strengthen Farke’s options at the back. It could also bring Struijk’s situation to a conclusion, allowing Leeds to head into the new season with greater certainty.
Perhaps most importantly, landing a player of Diomande’s calibre would send a strong statement about Leeds United’s ambitions. With several high-profile clubs reportedly monitoring the defender, convincing him to choose Elland Road would underline the club’s intent to establish themselves as more than a side merely fighting to stay in the Premier League.
