Ilia Gruev likely stares at Leeds United uncertainty after 'rehab' update

Ilia Gruev continues to recover from his injury as the Leeds United midfielder gets ready to return for pre-season training.

The Bulgaria international picked up a meniscus knee injury in April, prematurely ending his campaign with the Whites.

Daniel Farke's squad will report to Thorp Arch on 13 July for the first day of training ahead of next season.

Gruev is expected to be back from his injury soon as he looks to make a case for himself at Elland Road.

In the 2025-26 campaign, the 26-year-old wasn't the first name on the teamsheet for the West Yorkshire outfit as they looked to avoid Premier League relegation.

Farke had his preferences in the middle of the park and there may be some chopping and changing needed in the position soon.

Leeds United midfield options assessed ahead of next season

Taking to Instagram on 4 July, Gruev shared a carousel of photos as he continues his recovery in Greece, with the caption "rehab".

The midfielder has no time to waste if he wants to be in contention as one of the Whites' leading players in the coming weeks.

Ethan Ampadu and Anton Stach look to have a guaranteed spot in Farke's plans following some impressive displays to ensure the West Yorkshire outfit's Premier League safety.

Sean Longstaff and Ao Tanaka are the other senior options in the engine room who will surely hope for more game time at Elland Road next season after coming in and out of the team in recent months.

Gruev had a handful of decent performances for the Peacocks this season, with fans calling for him to be dropped from the team when the German manager gave him a run of games, and he may have to look for pastures new in the coming weeks for regular minutes.

Daniel Farke's possible plans for Ilia Gruev laid bare

Leeds are pushing to sign Shea Charles from Southampton in the transfer window, with the defensive-midfielder valued at around £30million.

The 22-year-old's signing by the Whites would certainly create uncertainty about the future of someone like Gruev.

Farke already has plenty of quality options to choose from in the engine room and the addition of the Saints prospect would likely open the doors for an exit at Elland Road.

The Bulgarian ace seems like the perfect candidate for the West Yorkshire outfit to cash in on, considering his contract expires in 2027.