Leeds United are putting plans together for the summer transfer window, as they look to cement their place in the Premier League for the long-term future.
The Whites have enjoyed a successful return to the top-flight so far, sitting seven points clear of relegation danger with only three games remaining.
That near-certainty of remaining in the league means the transfer plans can start to take shape, as Daniel Farke looks at where he needs to strengthen this Leeds squad.
More firepower appears to be on the cards, with a striker now in the sights of the Elland Road hierarchy.
Leeds target Ayase Ueda transfer
Daniel Farke
One area that Leeds are keen to improve is up front, as Football Insider claims that Feyenoord striker Ayase Ueda is a "key target" for the club this summer.
The 27-year-old has been in fine form for the Eredevisie outfit under former Premier League star Robin van Persie, scoring 25 goals in 30 appearances in the league.
The report claims that only a "big offer" will be considered by Feyenoord, though it remains to be seen whether Leeds will test their resolve when the market opens.
Ueda was first signed by Feyenoord in 2023 under Arne Slot, having impressed at Cercle Brugge, where he was often the second choice behind others in the striker role.
It was claimed by reports that Slot saw "enormous potential" in the Japanese international, who is now showing exactly why he was rated so highly.
His current boss, Van Persie, has since made a plea for him to stay and told the press: "From my point of view, I hope he is there next year. He is super important for us and within our style of play.
“He started very well, then had a somewhat weaker period, and we talked about that as well. It is nice to see that he bounced back from that; it also speaks volumes about his character.
“From his perspective, it might be a good time to make a move, but that is not up to me. I have no idea if that is realistic, but as I said: I hope he stays.”
It underlines just how impressive Ueda has been, and what Leeds could be getting if they make a move for the striker.
Leeds need forward strength in depth
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Last summer's transfer business, especially in the forward areas, looks impressive for Leeds with the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Noah Okafor, and Lukas Nmecha all finding the back of the net.
Those three have scored 28 goals between them, the same as the rest of the squad combined, underlining just how important they have been in winning games.
However, there are still questions over the depth of attacking options available to Farke, especially in the event of some key injuries over the next season.
Adding a player like Ueda into the mix would only strengthen those options for the manager, while preventing unfortunate issues from impacting the stability of the club.
It remains to be seen whether others could make their way to Elland Road, though there will likely be some exits. Joel Piroe continues to be linked with a move away, while questions may remain over Wilfried Gnonto and Daniel James within the squad.
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