Leeds United have found themselves in their second consecutive relegation battle since their return to the Premier League.
Despite the significant investment over the two previous transfer windows, just two points separate the Whites and the relegation zone in one of the closest drop zone scraps in years.
However, if they do manage to stay up (which I think they will) thanks to the introduction of manager Javi Gracia, they'll need a full squad reassessment in order to secure a lengthy future in the top-flight. So here are the three positions that Leeds United must bolster in the summer transfer window later this year...
Defensive midfielder
Current players: Tyler Adams, Marc Roca, Darko Gyabi, Weston McKennie (on loan)
I'd like to see Leeds find another defensive/central midfielder in the summer, especially if McKennie doesn't end up joining from Juventus. Tyler Adams has undoubtedly been one of the best players in a Whites shirt this season, with his ridiculous levels of consistency bringing some much-needed stability through a lot of rough patches.
However, past him, I don't really see much in the position which we're seeing in his absence. Gyabi is young, and certainly one for the future, but while he's impressed a lot in the Under-21s, he's not ready for a regular role in the Premier League just yet.
Marc Roca, for me, hasn't shown everything he's capable of in a Leeds shirt yet. While he's a decent tackler, his overall game hasn't stood out especially when paired with Adams in the two-man pivot. If McKennie does end up joining on a permanent deal, this position could be pushed a bit further down the priority list but it's
Goalkeeper
Current players: Illan Meslier, Joel Robles, Kristoffer Klaesson
This might be a contentious choice but Leeds must sort their goalkeeper situation out in the summer whether they stay in the Premier League this season or not.
From his latest interviews, regular Meslier seems like he has his mind set on a move away from Elland Road which would undoubtedly bring in some good money to find a replacement number one. Both Robles and Klaesson aren't top-flight standard yet in my opinion meaning they'd need to bring in another goalkeeper even if the Frenchman ends up staying at Leeds.
If Meslier goes to a big European club off the back of his performances this season however, this would be a top priority for whoever is in charge come next season.
Striker
Current players: Rodrigo Moreno, Patrick Bamford, Georginio Rutter
Rodrigo is absolutely fantastic - let's not get anything mixed up here. The club's top goalscorer this season even after two spells on the sideline, he shows up more often than not in the right places and has a great finish on him.
But I'm yet to be convinced by January signing Rutter. Of course it's early doors, a new country to adapt to, he'll need time to adjust his playing style to the Premier League and what Javi Gracia will need out of him.
Not to mention splashing out a club record fee of £35m on him, it's certainly a way to put pressure on the Frenchman. But perhaps giving him a bit more competition could really push him into a good run of form. As for Bamford, I think he needs to be sold in the summer. The consistent injury worries are becoming an issue that needs addressing, and while he's looked good in seasons gone by, his stats this year are nothing short of poor.
The worst xG differential (-3.6xG) in the entire Premier League this season is certainly not something to boast about, and if Rodrigo does get injured again like he has this season, the club needs a reliable strike partner/backup that they can trust. Don't let his history with the club blind you into keeping him on board. 17 goals in his first top-flight season was good - but it's been just four across the two since then. It's time to show him the door.
READ NEXT:
Leeds United dressing room on Arsenal what ifs as Elland Road double header target made clear
Summerville grasps Leeds United chance as trio must bounce back for season's critical phase
Javi Gracia says what everyone's thinking about Leeds United, Arsenal and next week's double-header
Relegation picture latest as Leeds United lose at Arsenal and late drama elsewhere
