Leeds dealt major transfer blow amid multi-million 49ers revelation – Exclusive
MOT Leeds News presents the exclusive opinion of iconic football commentator Ian Darke.
Leeds United are facing an uphill battle for Premier League survival this summer.
Daniel Farke‘s side topped the Championship last season, but the top flight is a completely different kettle of fish.
They have started to address their weaknesses, with six new additions already coming through the doors at Elland Road.
However, there is still plenty of work to be done before they can be satisfied with their business.
49ers warchest may not be enough for Leeds
The 49ers Enterprises group are believed to have sanctioned a £120million warchest for Farke before the transfer window started. [Sky Sports]
However, Ian Darke is not sure that amount will be enough for the Whites to guarantee survival next season.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, he said: “I can remember Fulham coming up a few years back and spending £100million but not on the right players.
“Now, you are down to how good the recruiting is and how well you spend the money.
“In theory, that should buy them. What does £80m buy you? Probably four in-form, middle-ranging £20m types, or you could splash out £40m to get a top-quality guy in, a difference maker.
“That is the decision that they will have to take, if they have that kind of money around.
“The only thing I would add is, it is not great news for everyone else to know that Leeds have got that kind of money burning a hole in their pocket.
“That disarms you a bit in negotiations with other clubs.”
Leeds have done pretty well so far
The fact that the Peacocks have got money to spend has been known throughout the summer, but they have still managed to pull off some brilliant additions.
They have mainly turned to the European market, with the likes of Anton Stach, Sebastiaan Bornauw, Lukas Nmecha, Jaka Bijol and Gabriel Gudmundsson coming in from clubs in Germany, Italy and France.
Sean Longstaff is the exception, as he was signed from Newcastle and already has significant top-flight experience.
The hope will be that the new signings can have an immediate impact and help the LS11 outfit push beyond the relegation fight.
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