LEEDS are back in the big time and that means one thing… fans can also expect big name signings.
Marcelo Bielsa has inspired the Whites back to the Premier League for the first time in 16 years.
Here’s how Leeds could line up next season
And to limit the risk of returning to the wilderness, the Argentine boss is certain to strengthen his side this summer despite being crowned Championship title winners.
With Bielsa’s huge book of contacts, the club have already been linked with sensational moves for veteran strikers Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Edinson Cavani.
Ibra, 38, is out of contract at AC Milan at the end of the month and Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani has already admitted the club attempted to sign him in January.
He said: “Ibrahimovic will certainly be difficult.
“We tried to sign him in January, but he chose to join Milan and the deal vanished.”
Cavani, who has scored over 350 career goals, has also been linked with a switch as he is on the lookout for a new club.
And Radrizzani admitted that a deal to sign the Uruguayan legend remains a distinct possibility.
He added: “In addition to his quality, Cavani could contribute with his physicality and adapt here, but I’ve never talked about him with the coach.
“Having said that, we’ve certainly thought about him and we’ll see, given he’s still available on a free transfer.”
The decision will come down to Bielsa who prefers his side to attack with relentless pressure.
But he could be tempted to mix up his tactics to accommodate Cavani if the 33-year-old decides he wants to play at Elland Road.
Bielsa will also look to bolster his defence having already been linked with a flurry of new faces.
Man City stopper Claudio Bravo could be drafted in to provide top-flight experience between the sticks.
A new goalkeeper is a certaintly on the manager’s transfer wishlist while they close in tying a permanent move for 20-year-old Illan Meslier.
Bravo’s international compatriot Mauricio Isla remains an option after leaving Fenerbahce and could provide competition for Luke Ayling at right-back.
Edinson Cavani has been sensationally linked with a move to LeedsCredit: AFP or licensors
Liam Cooper and Ben White have forged a solid partnership in defence but it hasn’t prevented Leeds being linked with River Plate defender Lucas Martinez Quarta.
The 24-year-old has a £22.5million release clause in his contract but the Whites face competition from Inter Milan for his signature.
The likes of Kalvin Phillips and Pablo Hernandez are integral to the club and are likely to keep their starting spot despite playing better opposition.
Leeds hopeful over incredible Edinson Cavani transfer with Premier League new-boys also set to target Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
