Jesse Marsch can stamp his identity on Leeds United with major changes to starting lineup
Leeds United have had one hell of a rollercoaster season but it ended on the best possible high when they avoided relegation on the final day.
After taking over from Marcelo Bielsa in February, Jesse Marsch managed to help the Whites climb out of danger while navigating several key injuries and suspensions during the run-in.
But now with the transfer window upon us and the Whites looking to hold their place in the Premier League once again by bolstering the squad, what would a realistic dream window look like for the boss?
One man who won’t have his position in any doubt is the goalkeeper Ilan Meslier, who continued his development as one of the best young keepers on the continent with several big saves and performances over the course of the season.
Both Stuart Dallas and Luke Ayling are expected to miss the start of the season after surgery on respective injuries, so that leaves a big opportunity for youngster Cody Drameh [YEP] to return from his loan at Cardiff where he was excellent.
Able to play on both flanks, Marsch will have the option of where to play him but the potential arrival of American international Sergino Dest [TEAMtalk] on the right means he’ll likely take his place on the left ahead of the poor Junior Firpo.
In central defence not much change is needed, with captain Liam Cooper taking the summer to fully recover before partnering Spain international Diego Llorente at the heart of the team.
Marsch is likely to move towards his favoured 4-2-2-2 formation next season and will build the squad accordingly, which makes the centre of midfield an especially important position to fill.
Adam Forshaw and Mateusz Klich are more than capable of playing in there, but with recent reports claiming the boss wants to use his Red Bull links by signing Tyler Adams from Leipzig [Tom Bogert] would be a perfect man to come into the side.
His high energy style with good pressing and link play will suit well alongside star man Kalvin Phillips, who is subject to plenty of interest. Despite that though, the player has spoken publicly of his desire to sign a new contract and stay and so the club will do all they can to keep him at Elland Road.
In the forward positions the team need a lot of pace and energy, which means Jack Harrison should keep his place after his upturn in form since Marsch’s arrival in Yorkshire.
On the right though, the Whites are likely to be without Raphinha as he heads for the exit but the club have already tied up a deal to bring in another American international in Brenden Aaronson to help replace him [Athletic].
After the way the season ended Joe Gelhardt has proven to everyone that he is ready for a more meaningful role in the squad next season and that should see him start more regularly as a striker, while the hope is that Patrick Bamford will return to full fitness and be able to lead the line alongside him.
In other Leeds news, Leeds United ace to ‘assess options next month’, mega money exit mooted – report