Leeds United are planning for life back in the Premier League. Daniel Farke's side secured their spot back in the top flight last month, and they have since had their eyes on the start of next season.
While 18 of their 19 opponents didn't finish their respective campaigns until the weekend, Leeds have had THREE extra weeks off to prepare for 2025/26 and their return to the Premier League. Burnley are the other, after they secured promotion from the Championship on the same day as Leeds - Easter Monday.
It has meant that the rumour mill has started regarding transfers, with Leeds linked with a number of players as they bid to strengthen the squad. Earlier this month, reports suggested that the Whites have a £100million transfer budget to spend on transfers ahead of the new season.
With this in mind, here is a look at the latest transfer news and rumours from Elland Road...
Hamer move
Gustavo Hamer is expected to leave Sheffield United following their play-off final defeat against Sunderland, according to talkSPORT. The Blades lost 2-1 at Wembley to miss out on promotion back to the Premier League.
It's claimed that Leeds United and Everton are interested in Hamer, 28, who was crowned as the Championship Player of the Year last month. The Brazilian fired 10 goals and added eight assists for Sheffield United, who finished third in the regular season but missed out on promotion via the play-offs.
LEEDS LIVE says: Leeds need to strengthen their squad in preparation for their Premier League return and Hamer is someone that would add depth and quality ahead of next season.
He has been a standout performer for Sheffield United across the last two years and he would slot straight into the Leeds squad, battling Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev for a starting position.
Fernandes blow
Leeds United have been a dealt a blow in their pursuit of Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandes. The midfielder has been one of Saints' standout players this season after arriving from Sporting CP last summer, and he could be on the move again following the club's relegation to the Championship.
It has been reported that Leeds are interested in the 20-year-old Portuguese, who is said to be valued at around £30million. However, Daily Echo have since claimed that Saints value Fernandes for much more than thought.
An article read: "The Daily Echo understands Southampton's true valuation of youth international Fernandes is much higher than reported. A potential £30m price tag was laughed off on Friday, with another quick-witted source quipping: 'His hair is worth £30m."
LEEDS LIVE says: There is no doubt Fernandes is a talent and could become a superstar in the future, but Leeds should avoid signing him if he is more than £30m.
They can't afford to be spending almost half of their summer budget on a player that doesn't have much senior experience under his belt and has been relegated in his one season in the Premier League.
It would make sense to target more experienced players and ones that have a knack in the Premier League, even if Fernandes is a good player and could strengthen the Leeds squad.