Leeds really want Longstaff after Eddie Howe transfer hint
Leeds United are beginning to work on strengthening their squad to increase their chances of staying in the Premier League next season.
The Whites have a lack of proven Premier League experience in certain areas of the squad, despite the fact they secured promotion from the Championship with relative ease.
Under the ambitious ownership of the 49ers, Leeds are unlikely to settle for just consolidating their spot at the top table of English football for the next few seasons, and will instead be keen to push themselves up towards the top half of the table and beyond over time.
Sean Longstaff could leave Newcastle, and Leeds are interested
One of those areas where Leeds are in desperate need of top-flight quality is the midfield.
Ao Tanaka starred for them this season, but has never played in the Premier League before, while there are question marks over whether the likes of Brendan Aaronson and Ilia Gruev are capable of making the step up.
Ethan Ampadu has consistent experience of playing in the top division, but most of that came in a Sheffield United side that finished rock bottom back in 2020/21.
The Elland Road side are now believed to be chasing the signing of Sean Longstaff to help them rectify that issue.
Eddie Howe has reportedly hinted that the 27-year-old could be sold this summer, although that would change if Joe Willock were to depart the North East outfit, according to the print edition of The Mirror (5 June – p.57).
Leeds are said to have a strong interest in Longstaff, but would likely face a battle with Everton for his signature.
Longstaff could be a great addition for Leeds
While Longstaff is not necessarily the most attractive name to be linked with following promotion to the Premier League, he could be exactly the type of addition that Leeds need in their midfield.
The Whites’ current options are all quite technical and creative players, whereas Longstaff could complement that by adding a little more bite and physical presence in the middle of the park.
He is a no-frills kind of player, but possesses the kind of nous and understanding of the Premier League that could be ideal to help with the relative lack of top-flight experience in the Leeds squad.
Farke would surely be able to make good use of the Englishman, if the West Yorkshire outfit could win the race to sign him.