Leeds United’s Transfer Priorities: Crysencio Summerville Sale and Right-Back Signing

With Joe Rothwell joining on a season-long loan and the influx of new first-year professionals, Leeds United has had a busy week on the signing front. This active period now needs to translate into a clear definition of the upcoming first-team squad.

Manager Daniel Farke faces notable gaps in his squad, with uncertainties surrounding the futures of players like Crysencio Summerville, Illan Meslier, and Liam Cooper. With the first pre-season game approaching in a week, it’s unclear who will still be at the club when the season begins. Providing some assurance on this front would help Farke and his players prepare.

Archie Gray’s departure to Tottenham Hotspur likely won’t be the last big-name exit, but the longer decisions are delayed, the less time there will be to effectively use any transfer fees received. Following a busy week, here’s a look at what Leeds’ next transfer priority should be.

Dom Howson

To justify their status as favorites for promotion from the Championship next season, Leeds needs more signings before the transfer window closes. Manager Daniel Farke seeks quality over quantity to propel the Whites forward.

Joe Rothwell could be a valuable addition. United have acquired a player with much to prove, as Rothwell struggled to secure a regular starting spot at Southampton last year. Versatile across the midfield and technically gifted, he will push players like Ilia Gruev, Glen Kamara, and Ethan Ampadu to perform better.

However, right-back is a position where Leeds is notably short. Players like Archie Gray, Luke Ayling, Jamie Shackleton, Djed Spence, Connor Roberts, and Cody Drameh were all under contract at some point last season but have since left. Sam Byram is now the only recognized senior right-back, and given his injury history and potential need to fill in on the left, it’s clear that United must bring in multiple full-backs to boost their promotion hopes.

A potential reunion with Connor Roberts could be an option. The Wales international faces an uncertain future after returning to Burnley from his loan spell at Elland Road. Injuries and Gray’s form limited Roberts’ game time, but he showed flashes of his ability.

James Smailes

The biggest priority right now is sorting the future of Crysencio Summerville. Leeds might feel they don’t need to let anyone else go after the income from Archie Gray’s sale, which settled their Profit and Sustainability (PSR) issues. They might believe they can retain Summerville despite interest from Premier League clubs.

This will be challenging if top-flight clubs make offers. Leeds may resist offers that aren’t compelling, but Summerville might be tempted by a Premier League opportunity. Brighton and Hove Albion have shown interest and started talks, but a suitable deal hasn’t been reached. Liverpool is also waiting before making moves, but Leeds cannot afford to wait.

If Summerville leaves, Leeds needs to use the substantial transfer fee wisely. The funds could significantly transform the squad with a few shrewd deals. However, time is needed to complete these deals, and integrating new players early is crucial.

A slow start last season cost Leeds automatic promotion. While things can be frantic now, they must settle down by August. The sooner a decision is made about Summerville’s future, the better for everyone.