Leeds United

Image source, Getty Images

We asked for your suggestions on strikers Leeds should realistically target this summer.

Here are some of your comments:

Ryan: Jamie Vardy, Callum Wilson and Calvert-Lewin are all available on a free.

M Wilson: Stick with Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph rather than taking a desperation punt. Joseph has energy and aggression in abundance. We should create enough chances.

Phil: Not too sure... except for it has to be a 'guaranteed' scorer. Pay big money 49ers - thank you. Maybe a Chelsea or Manchester City squad player as they should have spare. But bite the bullet and get someone.

Terry: People may laugh here, but Wilson on a free transfer would be ideal.

Peter: Current or recent Premier League strikers are prohibitively expensive. I would look to bring in a proven European goalscorer(s) from the Bundesliga, La Liga, Serie A or Ligue 1.

Jack: England international, Premier League experience, scored 17 goals in one of his Premier League seasons, available for no fee and , judging by the pre-season training pics, he is in the shape of his life... Mr Patrick Bamford.

Andy: I would be tempted to move Largie Ramazani to play striker and get a really good left winger like Manor Solomon, if not Solomon himself should he become available.

Apple: I agree that a striker capable of scoring goals in the Premier League will be expensive but Sunderland and Burnley have spent a lot more money in this window.

Brian: Vardy.

David: Calvert-Lewin, Wilson and Jamie Vardy are now only Championship standard and should not be considered even on a free. Rodrigo Muniz would be a statement signing of Premier league quality and could be instrumental to the ongoing development of Harry Gray.

• Not a Leeds fan? Find and follow your club here

Adam Pope
BBC Radio Leeds reporter

Image source, Getty Images

Dan James' deal to remain at Leeds United for a further four years is a clever move by the club and deserved for the player.

The flying winger's popularity has grown with supporters since he returned from a loan spell at Fulham, a deal that felt like he did not want but was the wish of then head coach Jesse Marsch.

His assists and goal contributions since returning to Elland Road in the summer of 2023 have been impressive but more so has his attitude. The Wales international has never moaned about being cast out from the club he now calls very much home.

It is a home of course from which he had the keys snatched in 2019 when at the 11th hour Swansea City chairman Huw Jenkins refused to sanction Leeds' attempt to sign him as the January transfer window closed.

This is a player who immediately after being present for the birth of his son in Manchester flew by helicopter to play 90 minutes and score in a victorious penalty shootout for Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds side at Craven Cottage in a League Cup tie.

This is a guy who also bears the scars of playing for United.

His tousled fringe can barely hide the huge wound on his forehead incurred in a head clash with Southampton's Kyle Walker-Peters in the 2024 Championship play-off final defeat at Wembley.

Bloodied, bandaged but unbowed, James returned to the fray to almost take the game to extra time with a stunning volley that crashed off the crossbar.

Having almost rescued that first full season under Daniel Farke, James was essential to Leeds' Championship title victory and a return to the Premier League the following year.

What is more, with the club having to skilfully navigate the choppy PSR waters, the amortisation of the remainder of his original £25m transfer fee over another four years makes shrewd financial sense, as does keeping a loyal and consummate professional.

Subscribe to BBC Radio Leeds' Don't Go To Bed Just Yet podcast on BBC Sounds

Image source, Getty Images

On the latest episode of Don't Go To Bed Just Yet, Kaiser Chiefs' bassist Simon Rix ponders whether Leeds should pay more than £12m for Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff.

"I feel like Leeds this summer so far have proven that they're not willing to be pushed on bids," he told BBC Radio Leeds. "They've bid for a few people and then when they've been outbid they've not worried too much. They haven't got into a bidding war so far.

"Whether or not there becomes a point where you have to start getting out of your comfort zone, I don't know. But I think they have made assessments on how much they want people, how much they're willing to pay and what the market value is and at the moment, they're not going beyond that.

"They did have, I believe, three bids for Longstaff. The maximum I think was £10m plus two million for bonuses, which seems very cheap for a guy with 100-plus Premier League appearances.

"It gets into Jack Harrison territory I guess - a really steady Premier League player which is probably what you need but you don't want to blow your budget."

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds

Image source, Getty Images

Leeds United will need to pay "big money" for a striker who will score goals in the Premier League, according to BBC Radio Leeds' Adam Pope and Jonny Buchan on the latest episode of Don't Go To Bed Just Yet.

Pope said: "I still think a goalkeeper and a centre-forward are key areas [to strengthen]. You're not going to get a striker for under £25m are you?"

"And the rest if you want somebody who is actually going to score goals in the Premier League," Buchan added.

"If you want to buy somebody who is at a Premier League club, who has scored goals in the Premier League, you're not going to pay any less than £25m.

But I think equally to lure somebody to the bottom end of the Premier League - which is what Leeds will be next season... let's all be honest about it - you're going to have to pay big money to get somebody out of a club.

"And of course, pay big wages as well."

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds

Who would you suggest as a realistic striker target? Tell us

Alex Howell
BBC Sport football news reporter

Image source, Getty Images

Our football news reporter Alex Howell has been answering your questions.

Sam in Ormskirk asked: Leeds United's owners have said that the public nature of their transfers has hindered them in the negotiating process. Is this something you've found to be true when reporting on transfers? However, transfers are newsworthy and fans don't want to think that their club isn't doing anything by staying silent!

Alex answered: Hi Sam. Yes, when dealing with clubs and approaching them in an official manner, the majority want to do their business quietly. When a club make everyone aware - whether that is fans or agents - of what they need during a window, other clubs can use it to their advantage and deals can become more expensive.

You are right though, supporters do want to know what is going on.

Transfer reporting has moved on too. In previous years, the approach or bid was reported but now it is every step of the process, up until the club officially announce.

It is always difficult for newly-promoted teams too, as they have such a big gap to fill.

Leeds United have reached an agreement in principle for 27-year-old Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff. (Athletic - subscription required), external

There is interest from Leeds United in signing 21-year-old Spain striker Gonzalo Garcia on loan from Real Madrid. (TBR Football), external

Want more transfer news? Read Wednesday's full gossip column

Follow the gossip column on BBC Sport

Image source, Getty Images

We asked for your views on Dan James' new long-term deal at the club.

Here are some of your comments:

Mark C: Can't fault James in terms of the loyalty and consistency he has shown, so securing him on a long-term contract feels right. His experience will be a valuable asset going forward.

Mandy: Absolutely delighted that Dan James has signed a long-term deal to stay at Leeds. His work rate and commitment is exemplary. Well done Dan.

Rex: DJ is probably the most improved player in the squad over the last two seasons. He's turned from a one dimensional speed merchant into a tricky, hard working all-rounder. Credit must go to Daniel Farke and his coaching team.

Scott: Excellent news that our best player from last season is happy to extend his contract with us in his prime, and have a real good crack at the Premier League again next season.

• Sign up for news notifications on your club

Paul: Best bit of news out of Elland Road for a long, long time.

John: He's been a brilliant performer for Leeds, especially once he got rid of his Old Trafford hangover. His pace and directness will scare even the most seasoned Premier League defender but I expect there will be some tackling skulduggery to try and slow him down to be honest.

Mark: Dan James has had a couple of fabulous Championship seasons so I'm delighted he has signed up again. It's as important to retain the right players as it is to sign new ones. His speed will be vital to Leeds if we play counter attacking football so it's great to have him on board.

Dan: This is a great bit of business for us and James. He was not only our best player but arguably the best player in the Championship too. He never stops working and he's finally getting that end product that was missing, plus he has plenty of Premier League experience. Delighted!

Image source, Leeds United

Leeds United midfielder Dan James has signed a new long-term deal to keep him at the club until 2029.

The 27-year-old joined the Whites on a five-year contract in 2021 from Manchester United and has been a consistent figure in the side since signing, making 123 appearances across all competitions and supplying 29 goals and 22 assists.

James was voted by Leeds supporters as the club's player of the season for the 2024-25 campaign after helping the team to the Championship title and scoring 12 goals in 36 games.

What do you make of the news?

Happy to see such a long deal?

Is it as good as a new signing?

Let us know

The latest Don't Go To Bed Just Yet is here and on this week's show, BBC Radio Leeds' Jonny Buchan and Adam Pope and Kaiser Chiefs' bassist Simon Rix start counting down to the first pre-season fixture.

The players are back in training and some new faces are on show, but a clamour remains for more signings before the club's Premier League return.

What do the Whites still need?

Listen to the chat now on BBC Sounds

Image source, Getty Images

Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff has caught the eye of newly promoted Leeds, but will he leave this summer?

The 27-year-old has made 214 senior appearances for the club, but played just 787 minutes in the Premier League last season after mainly coming on as a substitute.

"Longstaff seems to have fallen out of favour at Newcastle," said former Magpies defender John Anderson on BBC Radio Newcastle. "Even when he wasn't starting, Eddie Howe would always bring him on in games but since January he has fallen down the pecking order.

"He wasn't getting as much game time as he would have to wanted either, so he needs the move because he needs to be playing football.

"Everyone knows that Newcastle's midfield three picks itself now but the deal has got to be right.

"You can't let sentiment get in the way because if you want to progress and move forward then these decisions have to be made.

"I think Leeds' offer of £10m is too low and he is worth at least £15m if not more because of the experience he brings."

Listen to the full discussion on BBC Sounds

Get news notifications on your club

Image source, Getty Images

Swedish journalist Olof Lundh says new Leeds United full-back Gabriel Gudmundsson will add an extra dimension to their attack.

The Sweden international should slot into the left wing-back role previously held by Junior Firpo after making the £10m switch from Lille and signing a four-year deal at Elland Road.

"He is more of a Junior Firpo type of player," Lundh told BBC Radio Leeds' Don't Go To Bed Just Yet podcast.

"But I don't know if Daniel Farke will go with three central defenders. [If so], then Gabriel Gudmundsson would be a great wing-back. As a full-back, he will have challenges defensively. But he is great offensively.

"In the national team, they've used him as one of three central defenders, as a left central defender.

"His skills are mostly in the offensive part of the game, but he has developed a lot in the French league, which is quite a tough, physical league. He has grown a lot, mentally and become tougher. He has taken on challenges and done really well."

Listen on BBC Sounds

Newcastle United have rejected a third bid from Leeds United for 27-year-old English midfielder Sean Longstaff. (Northern Echo, external)

Want more transfer stories? Read Thursday's full gossip column

Follow the gossip column on BBC Sport

Image source, Getty Images

We asked for your views on new Leeds signing Gabriel Gudmundsson and what other business the club needs to do this summer.

Here are some of your comments:

Tony: Very happy with this pick-up. Seems to be very Firpo-like in attack but with better defensive capabilities. Happy with how we're going, but still need to fill two key positions (goalkeeper and a forward) and add some more quality depth across the board.

Mark: This is another critical signing for us. Now we focus on a centre-forward and number 10!

Richard: Strong defence is crucial in the Premier League. Also, players who can score out of position. We are up against the best of the best in some teams. Midfield needs strengthening. Attack is OK, but I wonder how Piroe will do against some teams.

David: Good to see solid improvements at the back, but I'm hoping for more exciting signings up front.

Graham: As always, the proof of the pudding etc... A solid, if unspectacular, signing. We obviously need to get players in who can handle the physicality of the Premier League.

Harry: I'm glad we're signing players for the start of the season, but I still think we need to get ourselves an experienced Premier League midfielder who can play alongside Ao Tanaka, and a goalkeeper who can help keep us clean sheets.

Leeds United remain interested in signing Norwich City striker Josh Sargent, but face competition from Premier League rivals Burnley, who are preparing an £18m bid for the 25-year-old USA international. (SportsBoom), external

Want more transfer stories? Read Wednesday's full gossip column

Follow the gossip column on BBC Sport

Image source, Getty Images

Leeds United defender Sam Byram is "over the moon" after signing a new one-year contract to extend his stay at Elland Road until the summer of 2026.

The 31-year-old, who came through the Leeds academy, played a key role in the club's promotion-winning campaign last season, making 39 appearances as Daniel Farke's side secured the Championship title.

Byram, who rejoined United before the 2023-24 campaign, has now made over 200 appearances for his boyhood club since his debut in 2012. His versatility and experience were crucial last term, including a memorable goal in the win over Luton Town in November.

"I am over the moon to get this over the line and to be back in for day one of pre-season," Byram told club media., external

"Obviously, it is a huge challenge ahead, but one that I am excited for. I am hopeful to add my experience from the past and do whatever I can for the club to help our ambitions for this year.

"It was a dream of mine to get promoted with Leeds, and then obviously to be around for the Premier League season is sort of that one step further. It is something I am very excited about."

The BBC's search to find a new football expert is under way, with 12 content creators competing in Last Pundit Standing to win a role as BBC Sport's next football content creator.

The first two episodes of the show - co-hosted by former Watford captain Troy Deeney and YouTuber and football presenter James Allcott - are available to watch on iPlayer, as well as BBC Sport's YouTube channel and TikTok account, with new episodes every week until 11 August.

The contestants, who were chosen from more than 400 applicants, will be whittled down through a series of tasks staged at iconic football locations as the creators are challenged by some of the biggest names in the game.

Read more about the show here

Watch the first two episodes of Last Pundit Standing now on BBC iPlayer

Image source, Leeds FC

Leeds have announced the signing of Sweden international left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson from Lille for an undisclosed fee.

The 26-year-old made 45 appearances in all competitions for Lille last season as the French side finished fifth in Ligue 1 and reached the last 16 of the Champions League.

He becomes Leeds' fourth permanent signing so far this summer after central defenders Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw and striker Lukas Nmecha.

Leeds fans, what do you make of the signing? And what should the Whites do next in the transfer window amid links to Rodrigo Muniz, Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach among others.

Let us know here

Adam Pope
BBC Radio Leeds reporter

Image source, Getty Images

Leeds United are still expected to make Lille left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson the club's fourth summer signing, with the Sweden international closing in on a £10m move to Elland Road.

United are being heavily linked with several other players, including Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, midfielders Anton Stach of Hoffenheim and Newcastle United's Sean Longstaff.

The interest in Longstaff is concrete, but I cannot confirm whether a bid has been accepted at this stage, despite reports elsewhere saying a £12m deal has been agreed.

Torino's Vanja Milinkovic-Savic is one of several goalkeepers Leeds are interested in, but it is questionable if they have the financial clout to beat either Manchester United or Napoli to the Serb's signature if it came to a 'show me the money' scenario.

Jack Harrison's future remains unclear. Back at pre-season training with Leeds United from another loan at Everton, he has three years left on his contract at Elland Road.

My understanding is that Everton would be interested in taking him on a free transfer, but the implications of cutting a deal or paying up Harrison's contract would have PSR implications for Leeds, who are carefully navigating through the financial parameters while bolstering their squad for the new season.

Melissa Edwards
BBC Sport journalist

Image source, Getty Images

With Max Wober out the door on loan to Werder Bremen, a new left-back is expected to join Leeds this summer - and all of the links are pointing to Lille's Gabriel Gudmundsson.

His likely arrival for an expected fee of £10m was discussed on the latest Don't Go To Bed Just Yet podcast and BBC Radio Leeds' Adam Pope has detailed the kind of player United fans are waiting for.

"It's hard to describe him as a pure left-back," said Pope. "The more you look into it, he's more of a Firpo-ish [player] - gets down that left side and plays left-back as well, but can play in midfield and can play right-sided centre-back for Sweden.

"His dad [Niklas] played a bit for Blackburn and Ipswich, so he's got footballing pedigree. This is a guy who looks quite aggressive and a good ball-carrier who takes a few risks, and is quick and athletic.

"He's not a pure defensive left-back, although he might have to play that position. That shows versatility."

The 25-year-old finished fifth with Lille in Ligue 1 last season, just missing out on the chance for Champions League football to Nice, who had a superior goal difference. They had the second best defensive record with 36 conceded, bettered by only champions Paris St-Germain's 35.

Gudmundsson netted two league goals in 2024-25. He had an 82.1% pass-completion rate and won the third-most tackles for Lille at a 69% success rate.

The Sweden international lost eight of his 20 contested aerial duels and made three errors leading to shots across his 30 appearances.

However, during his previous spell at Groningen, he made the top 10 charts across the Eredivisie in 2020-21 in aerial duels won, progressive carries, crosses into the penalty area and successful take-ons.

Listen to the full episode of Don't Go To Bed Just Yet on BBC Sounds

Image source, Getty Images

Leeds have submitted their formal planning application for the redevelopment of Elland Road into a 53,000-capacity stadium to the city council.

The hybrid application is full and detailed for the West Stand and an outline for the North Stand.

The former is expected to open in 2028, with a rise from 8,000 to 17,750 seats, and the latter by nearly 5,000 to 15,300 in 2030.

The application follows public consultations where supporters and the local community were invited to share their feedback, and the club said 97% of respondents supported the design proposals.

Leeds chief business officer Morrie Eisenberg said: "This is a result of the hard work of everyone involved over the past 18 months, where designs and concepts have been developed to revitalise Elland Road Stadium, while preserving the unique history and heritage it holds.

"I would like to thank everyone who took the time to go to the public exhibition at the Centenary Pavilion and the consultation sessions in the local community, with over 1,800 people visiting in person, and those who completed the questionnaire and provided us with invaluable comments and feedback, which have all been considered."

Leeds United are keeping tabs on Lens midfielder Neil El Aynaoui, with Sunderland and Wolves also interested in the 24-year-old Moroccan, as well as European giants Roma, Juventus, and AC Milan. (Footmercato - in French), external

Meanwhile, Slavia Prague manager Jindrich Trpisovsky has confirmed that Senegalese defender El Hadji Malick Diouf, 20, is set to leave the club, with Leeds among those vying for his services alongside West Ham. (Standard), external

Want more transfer stories? Read Tuesday's full gossip column

Follow the gossip column on BBC Sport

A new episode of Don't Go To Bed Just Yet is available to listen to and download on BBC Sounds.

Jonny Buchan, Adam Pope and Kaiser Chiefs' bassist Simon Rix have plenty to talk about with Lille left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson expected to join the club as Max Wober heads out on loan to Werder Bremen.

All that, a new home kit and a story of a broken guitar in Edinburgh are topics for the panel.

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds