Before the start of last season, many tipped Leeds United to be relegated straight back to the Championship. Instead, Daniel Farke guided the Whites to safety and helped establish a foundation for the future.
It is often said that a promoted Premier League club needs around three seasons to truly establish itself in the division, and Leeds are now entering the crucial second phase of that journey.
After significant investment brought ten new faces into the squad last summer, many of those signings proved to be a success. Their contributions, combined with Farke’s tactical adjustments during the second half of the campaign, helped Leeds comfortably avoid the drop.
However, the next step could be even more challenging.
This summer represents a defining moment for the club as they prepare for their second season back in the Premier League. Recruitment decisions could determine whether Leeds continue progressing or begin looking over their shoulder once again.
Leeds United urged to consider sale of their ‘best player’
Leeds will have some major decisions to make before the new campaign gets underway, particularly regarding the makeup of their squad.
Despite surviving their first season back in the top flight, there remain areas of the team that require improvement.
Former scout Mick Brown believes Leeds may need to make a ruthless decision involving one of their standout performers. The links to Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande, according to Brown, could potentially signal the end of Joe Rodon’s time at Elland Road.
“Diomande is exactly the type of player Leeds have to be looking at, and he is at the top of their list,” Brown told Football Insider.
“When you look at their squad, they’re missing a real outstanding player who you think is going to take them to the next level.
“It’s fair to say their best player over the last couple of years has been Joe Rodon. Since he joined the club, he has been excellent and been a big part of their success.
“But let’s say he went somewhere else, would he improve a Premier League team and help them make that next step to qualify for Europe?”
Does Mick Brown have a point?
Brown’s argument highlights the difficult reality facing ambitious clubs.
As teams climb the Premier League ladder, they often outgrow players who were instrumental in getting them there. Leeds themselves moved on from several promotion heroes who were unable to make the step up to the top flight.
Building a squad capable of competing for the top half — and eventually European places — requires constant evolution.
That said, Joe Rodon does not appear to be the most obvious area in need of upgrading. The Welsh international has been one of Leeds’ most consistent performers and remains a key figure in Farke’s side.
There are several other positions within the squad that arguably require strengthening before Leeds consider replacing one of their most reliable players.
The challenge for the 49ers this summer is finding the right balance between loyalty and ambition as they attempt to take Leeds United to the next level.
