As the summer transfer window prepares to open, Leeds United is eager to make a strong start after a disappointing loss in the play-off final.
With the club’s first signing last summer not coming until the third week of July, Leeds is looking to avoid a repeat of that delay, which ultimately hindered their promotion push. Fortunately, Paraag Marathe has expressed confidence in the team’s improved position this time around.
Behind the scenes, Leeds’ newly formed recruitment team, led by Daniel Farke and 49ers Enterprises, has been working diligently to identify potential targets.
Farke has already held talks with Brenden Aaronson about a potential return to the club, indicating that the team is actively seeking reinforcements.
While few links have emerged so far, some names have surfaced in recent weeks. Bobby De Cordova-Reid, a soon-to-be free agent, and Excelsior winger Couhaib Driouech have been mentioned as potential targets. However, the first concrete name to emerge is young Chelsea defender Alfie Gilchrist, with Leeds, Blackburn Rovers, and Preston North End all expressing interest in a loan deal.
According to Ben Jacobs, Leeds may need to wait until after pre-season to finalize a deal for Gilchrist, but the player is reportedly open to a move.
Jacobs stated that Chelsea plans to loan Gilchrist out to a Championship club, aligning with the player’s intentions. While the timing may depend on Chelsea’s pre-season plans, Gilchrist is likely to end up at a Championship club, possibly in late July or early August.
Gilchrist’s versatility in playing both right-back and centre-back would be a valuable asset for Leeds, who need to strengthen both positions. Having made 17 appearances for Chelsea last season, including a start against Leeds in the FA Cup, Gilchrist has demonstrated his ability to excel in various roles.
With Leeds, Preston, and Blackburn having made formal approaches, the competition for Gilchrist’s signature is heating up. However, Jacobs believes that Gilchrist would be open to a Leeds move, despite the rivalry between Chelsea and Leeds.
With his willingness to help Leeds secure promotion, Gilchrist could be a valuable addition to the team.