Leeds United manager Daniel Farke, Paraag Marathe in a circular insert.
Leeds United must act quickly to bolster their squad for the next season, as a key target is close to agreeing a move to Newcastle United.
Leeds United’s recruitment team are already looking towards the summer window, with the club’s Premier League status looking increasingly secure.
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Although survival remains the immediate priority, the 49ers are planning for a window that could shape the next phase of Daniel Farke’s project.
One area of focus is the attacking midfield position. Brenden Aaronson has been deployed on the right wing occasionally in recent months, with Farke favouring a more robust midfield three.
The system has brought stability, but there is recognition within the club that additional creativity in central areas would add another dimension.
Leeds could miss out on Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini
Leeds were strongly considering a move for Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini during last summer’s transfer window, according to a report from TEAMtalk back in September.
The Italy international, capped 36 times for his country, is out of contract at the end of the season and is expected to leave the Serie A club on a free transfer.
However, a recent report from Italian media outlet CalcioMercato claims Pellegrini has already given his approval to a move to Newcastle United, while several other Premier League clubs are monitoring developments.
Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has previously indicated an exit is likely, and the club have shown no willingness to renew Pellegrini’s contract.
For Leeds, a deal would represent a significant coup. Pellegrini would arrive without a transfer fee, though his wage demands are likely to be substantial. The move would only be viable if Leeds retain their Premier League status, but the groundwork is already being laid.
However, the 49ers seemingly must act urgently to persuade Pellegrini to join Leeds over Newcastle if they do not want to miss out on the Italian playmaker.
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Data suggests Lorenzo Pellegrini has been excellent at Roma
Pellegrini has spent nine seasons at Roma, making over 300 appearances and registering 59 goals and 60 assists.
He captained the club to Europa Conference League glory in 2022 and was also named Player of the Tournament.
Data suggests Pellegrini has also had a solid start to the current Serie A campaign, which could be his last before making the move to the Premier League.
Stat Value
Appearances 16
Starts 12
Goals 3
Assists 0
Expected assists (xA) 1.98
Big chances created 3
Key passes per game 0.9
(Sofascore)
Whilst beating Newcastle to his signature will be hard, especially if they can offer him European football, the 49ers must rapidly step up their pursuit of Pellegrini to give themselves a fighting chance if they really want the Italian at Elland Road.
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