There may well be a change in the recruitment strategy at Leeds United this summer. Proven Premier League players could be preferred to their counterparts from across Europe after a few big-money transfer failures since the Whites returned to the top flight.
It is often frowned upon by supporters but it might be worth Victor Orta and company looking at the three sides who have been relegated from the Premier League for inspiration. Norwich, Watford and Burnley all had largely forgettable seasons but there are solid players in each of their squads, players that will undoubtedly be the subject of transfer interest this summer.
We have taken a look at five of them Leeds could consider as they look to address their wafer-thin squad.
Read more: Leeds United told they must back Jesse Marsch in the transfer window
Max Aarons – Norwich
The lack of depth at right-back has been quite damaging for Leeds in the last couple of seasons, especially when Luke Ayling has been unavailable. That was made even worse for the last few games of the season when Stuart Dallas was also injured with Robin Koch having to fill in on the right-hand side of the defence.
That certainly isn’t sustainable and, while Cody Drameh will return from his successful loan at Cardiff, Jesse Marsch could choose to send him out for more experience next term. That could see Leeds enter the market for a right-back and they could certainly do worse than have a look at Max Aarons from Norwich.
It is tough to truly judge the 22-year-old’s performances based on the lack of quality around him at Carrow Road but he is a brilliant carrier of the ball whilst being more than sound defensively as well as strong going forward. However, teams including Manchester United and Arsenal have been linked so it might be hard for Leeds to compete for his signature.
Nick Pope – Burnley
Despite being part of a relegated Burnley side, Nick Pope had a very strong season. 10 Premier League teams conceded more goals than the Clarets and, had it not been for the England goalkeeper, their fate would have been sealed much sooner.
At one stage, there were reports that Leeds were interested in bringing a more experienced shot-stopper to the club with both Illan Meslier and Kristoffer Klaesson being extremely young. Whether that wish remains with Jesse Marsch in charge is unclear but Pope would certainly be a smart choice if the Whites boss does want a new goalkeeper. With the pressure Burnley find themselves under financially, he could be available relatively cheaply.
Emmanuel Dennis – Watford
Rumours continue to circulate about interest in both Raphinha and Jack Harrison which may force Leeds to target further reinforcements in the wide areas. One winger who impressed this season is Emmanuel Dennis who scored 10 goals and provided six assists in a really poor Watford side.
On the back of such a strong Premier League campaign, it is unlikely the Nigerian forward will be keen on playing in the Championship so he will likely move on. He could also help to satisfy the Whites’ need for Patrick Bamford cover as he can play anywhere across the frontline.
Dwight McNeil – Burnley
Another option for a winger from a relegated side is Dwight McNeil. He doesn’t match up to Dennis in terms of stats or impact but the way Burnley played, especially under Sean Dyche, didn’t exactly suit a winger keen to run with the ball and take on defenders.
As a wide midfielder, McNeil certainly isn’t afraid to help out defensively and would be a reliable squad player at the very least, dependent on how much he would cost. Although, there is a better option from Burnley that Leeds have explored previously…
Maxwel Cornet – Burnley
Finally, Maxwel Cornet is likely to be on the move this summer and he reportedly has a £17.5m relegation release clause in his contract. As mentioned, he is a player that has been linked with the Whites previously, as recently as last summer.
After signing for Burnley instead, the Ivorian winger showed those at Elland Road what they missed out on as he scored nine goals – including a brilliant free-kick against Leeds – and provided one assist in his debut Premier League season. Like Dennis, the versatility of Cornet would be vital as he primarily plays on the left-wing but can also play at left-back or as a striker in a two-man attack.
If rumours of his release clause are true, it should be a deal that Leeds, at least, explore especially if Raphinha and/or Jack Harrison leave this summer.
