Paul Merson sends stark warning to 49ers in ‘phenomenal’ Leeds United claim
Leeds United are set to embark on the major challenge of avoiding Premier League relegation at the first attempt.
Daniel Farke’s side finished as the best in the Championship, having been crowned champions on goal difference.
They will be acutely aware of just how difficult it is to stay up, with Ipswich Town, Leicester City and Southampton falling at the first hurdle.
Merson shares Premier League relegation thoughts
Leeds will be among the favourites to be relegated from the Premier League next season, which they everyone connected to the Yorkshire club will be fully aware of.
Surviving in the Premier League has become increasingly difficult over time, and this season has proved that.
| Position | Club | Points |
| 16th | Manchester United | 39 |
| 17th | Tottenham Hotspur | 38 |
| 18th | Ipswich Town | 22 |
| 19th | Leicester City | 22 |
| 20th | Southampton | 12 |
However, Leeds are to be armed with a £100million war chest because of how the Premier League structures its finances.
Of course, having money is one thing, but spending it effectively is another, and the Elland Road club could look at what Nottingham Forest have achieved as inspiration.
However, Paul Merson delivered a strong alert to Leeds owners, the 49ers, as they prepare to spend their budget.
He told Sky Sports News (14 May): “Fans come up, the owners come up, and they all look at [Nottingham] Forest this season and think ‘we can do what Forest did’, and everybody gets carried away.
“Come up, get 17th, and build. Everybody starts to sprint before they can walk in the Premier League. The gulf is phenomenal, it’s phenomenal how big it is.”
Leeds must strengthen spine of team
It might sound obvious, but Leeds have some work to do if they are to build a squad ready to compete in the top flight.
The Yorkshire club possesses several quality players, but they will lose star man Manor Solomon as he returns to his parent club Tottenham Hotspur.
Joel Piroe bagged the Championship Golden Boot this season with 19 goals, but will struggle to replicate that in the Premier League.
The most glaring area that needs strengthening is the goalkeeper position, with Illan Meslier not cut out for a starting berth.
Newcastle United’s Nick Pope looks like a solid option as he is likely to be replaced by James Trafford this summer.
Another player Leeds have been linked with is Everton’s Beto, who has enjoyed an upturn in form under David Moyes.
Whether he would be capable of keeping the Yorkshire club up is uncertain. but he could thrive as the main man.
While Leeds have a healthy transfer budget, they must spend their money wisely or face an instant return to the Championship.