Pre-season training for Leeds United's first team squad starts next week. The opening round of physical testing after their summer break are due to take place at Thorp Arch on Monday.
It will be the first opportunity for summer signings Lukas Nmecha, Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw to meet their new teammates as the Whites step up their preparations for the 2025/26 season. The trio will be hoping to be involved in United's opening pre-season friendly against Manchester United on Saturday, July 19.
But the big question is will there be further additions to the Leeds squad before their maiden warm-up fixture in Stockholm? United are on the look-out for more reinforcements to help them bridge the gap between the Championship and the top flight. The last six promoted clubs have all gone straight back down.
In an interview with German outlet Tag 24 cover, assistant manager Christopher John said: “The Premier League is a completely different story. It will be a big deal for us. We also have to bear in mind that the promoted teams have been relegated straight back down again in the last two seasons.”
It is crystal clear the profile of players manager Daniel Farke wants to add to the group between now and September 1. The focus seems to be on building a strong, robust squad who will be able to handle the physical demands of the Premier League. Centre-backs Bijol and Bornauw are both 6ft 3ins tall and should give them more threat from set pieces. Nmcecha is no slouch either and stands at 6ft 1ins tall.
There were moments last year when United were accused of lacking physicality, particularly in midfield, and Anton Stach is another player believed to be on their transfer shortlist. Bringing in big, imposing footballers appears to be a key pillar in Farke’s vision for the squad build to avoid the drop.
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