PSR explained: Why Sunderland are getting better of Leeds with summer transfers
Leeds United have been beaten to the punch by Sunderland multiple times this transfer window.
Fellow promoted side Sunderland managed to win the race for midfield duo Noah Sadiki and Habib Diarra earlier in the summer.
Leeds have now made some progress of their own but are seemingly falling behind their rivals when it comes to spending power.
Sunderland can spend more than Leeds due to PSR
The words ‘Profit and Sustainability Rules’ have been increasingly ringing around the Premier League in recent seasons.
For many, the concept is overly complicated and fails to help connect supporters with what’s actually going on at their club.
Leeds spent a lot of money the last time they were promoted to the Premier League.
Their seasons in the top flight have had a knock-on affect for the Peacocks, as despite parachute payments and a healthy sum made from winning the Championship, their spending is still restricted.
This is due to the signings they have made over the last three years.
The Elland Road faithful will question why their promoted rivals have been able to spend so much more than them.
It’s understood that the Peacocks had £68-73million to spend at the start of the summer without player sales, before then landing a massive sum through Jobe Bellingham’s move to Borussia Dortmund.
Sunderland also had significantly more money to play with because they’ve spent hardly anything, and sold well, over the last three years as they turned to the youth.
Therefore, the West Yorkshire club must secure player sales or raise money through other means in order for Farke’s side to be able to spend much more than they already have.
Leeds shouldn’t worry about Sunderland’s transfer business
Last season, Leeds already had a healthy lead over Sunderland.
| Championship 2024/25 | Points |
| 1- Leeds | 100 |
| 2- Burnley | 100 |
| 3- Sheffield United | 90 |
| 4- Sunderland | 76 |
They finished 24 points above the Mackems and have made a good start to the transfer window.
Farke’s side have significantly strengthened their defence in signing Jaka Bijol, Sebastian Bornauw and Gabriel Gudmundsson and will look to prioritise in other areas of the pitch.
Though supporters are worried about a deal for Sean Longstaff being dragged out, fans’ minds can be put at ease with the 49ers doing their best to find a suitable conclusion for them.
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