Connor Roberts tipped to re-sign for Leeds United as four new arrivals mooted
David Norris has identified the four positions Leeds United must recruit in for their starting XI ahead of this season.
The former Whites midfielder also discussed the possibility of Connor Roberts returning to Elland Road following last season’s loan from Burnley.
Roberts penned an emotional farewell to the Leeds fans following the conclusion of his stint in West Yorkshire, with a potential return to Daniel Farke’s side strongly mooted.
Norris, speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, said: “From what I’ve seen and the Leeds fans I’ve spoken to, a right-back is crucial and Connor Roberts might still come back, who had put in some good performances.
“I’d say they need another central defensive midfielder, a number 10 and a striker. With the momentum they have when they play, they need two or three players because if they get injuries, that momentum will get disrupted.
“I think some of their bigger players will still go, and there needs to be a plan in place for that to ensure they have enough squad depth.”
Leeds United in succession plan
With Leeds United figuring out who will remain in a white shirt come the start of September, Norris acknowledges the club’s need for a succession plan for certain big-hitters who they may lose.
Archie Gray was an example of that and reinforces the need for a midfielder – and for a right-back, given the teenager’s versatility allowed him to operate in that position at times last season.
This could be where Roberts comes in, with Burnley expected to be willing to sell if the right offer comes in for the Welshman, though Graham Smyth believes “nothing is imminent” on that potential deal.
The likes of Crysencio Summerville, Wilfried Gnonto and Georginio Rutter have all been strongly linked away and this is where an important plan has to be firmly in place, with the recruitment staff working hard behind the scenes to ensure the club are well sheltered should they lose one of last season’s top performers.
Leeds must establish their budget for the coming months and leave no margin for error in their transfer business, to make sure the same pattern can follow throughout the campaign as promotion is now a non-negotiable for Farke and his team.
In other Leeds news, the club are set to secure a payment if an MK Dons player leaves this summer.
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