Ilia Gruev could be ‘set for Leeds United exit’ after Farke transfer approach
Leeds United are still pushing for promotion back to the Premier League, but Daniel Farke is already looking ahead to the summer transfer window.
After getting form back on track, seemingly helped by the introduction of Karl Darlow, Leeds have returned to the top of the Championship table.
Sitting level on points with Burnley and five clear of Sheffield United, the Whites require eight points from the 12 remaining this season.
Farke eyes Leeds United target
The boss wants to be prepared for the summer window, knowing that if he is to keep his side in the top flight, additions to his Leeds squad will be needed.
If the 49ers are going to achieve their aims and improve the long-term future success at Elland Road, then a sustainable position in the Premier League is a must.
Leeds have been warned about the struggles, and watching all three promoted clubs set to come back down to the Championship serves as a brutal reminder of the challenges ahead.
Farke is said to be keen on his former player Julian Weigl, who is currently captain at Borussia Mönchengladbach.
There have yet to be formal talks between the two parties, but it has been reported that the defensive midfielder would only have interest in a move to Elland Road if it would be to play in the Premier League.
Weigl arrival could spell bad news for Ilia Gruev
Although the majority of his squad have delivered this season, Farke will need to be brutal in the summer transfer window as he looks to upgrade his side.
With that in mind, if Weigl was made a Leeds man, it could limit the opportunities for Ilia Gruev in the side, especially assuming Ethan Ampadu would stay put.
Gruev has discussed the hope of playing top-flight football with his current club, but if that wasn’t regularly, whether or not it would be so attractive is yet to be seen.
The 24-year-old has made 19 Championship appearances this season, having spent some time on the sidelines through injury.
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Gruev | 19 | 0 | 1 |
| Weigl | 28 | 0 | 2 |
However, he has also failed to impress at times at Elland Road and given he has no experience of playing in the top flight, Farke may feel he wants to opt for a more experienced player.
Weigl would be an expensive addition for Leeds, so to sign him would lead to some departures needing to be sanctioned and although he has played his part this season, it’s questionable whether Gruev would be able to deliver at the top.