Leeds’ desire to keep Pascal Struijk will be challenged this summer, with Aston Villa understood by sources to be the most interested side, although the Whites’ plans around 26-year-old Daniel Farke and his likes have emerged.
Struijk has caught the eye of several Premier League sides, positioning the Leeds United centre-back as one of the most attractive defensive targets ahead of the summer transfer window. The 26-year-old, known for his ball handling and assured left-footed delivery, has produced solid performances for the Yorkshire club this season, helping them into a difficult campaign.
Well-placed sources have confirmed Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and Newcastle United are all keeping tabs on the defender. Tottenham have a long-term interest in Struijk, seeing him as a reliable, ready-to-play addition to their backline should they need to renew their options in central defence, especially with Cristian Romero on the verge of an exit.
The north London club see the former Ajax academy graduate as a player who can be integrated immediately, providing defensive support and more at the back.
Aston Villa are regarded as strong suitors by TEAMtalk sources, and Unai Emery’s side are understood to be preparing for the target. The Villans, often balancing the demands of the Premier League and European games, are keen to add technical quality and depth to their defence.
Sources suggest Villa could make an initial offer of around £25million (€29m, $33m) due to his contract coming into its final year, although any successful bid would likely involve further negotiations depending on Leeds’ valuation.
Newcastle United round up the interested parties, Struijk talks about their contingency plans as they seek protection for potential defensive weaknesses.
The Magpies’ recruitment process often prioritizes Premier League players who can make immediate contributions. However, Eddie Howe’s side must sell to buy and will work later in the window.
ICYMI: Leeds ‘hold strong interest’ in Middlesbrough goalkeeper as £20m link to Brighton man emerges.
And what about Pascal Struijk’s future at Leeds?
Leeds United, however, are determined to keep one of their most reliable figures.
Struijk, whose current contract runs at Elland Road until 2027, is highly regarded by the Whites and manager Daniel Farke and is considered part of the club’s identity.
The German boss has relied on Struijk both in a four-man defence, while establishing himself on the left side of the three in Leeds’ current 3-5-2 / 3-5-1-1 formation.
Sources say initial talks over a new deal have taken place, however it will depend on what the Leeds division is up to next season.
If they are still a Premier League side, Leeds will raise those talks and will be confident that an agreement on a new deal will be reached. But even if they were to go down, the Whites would try to extend his time, although that hope would come to a greater test if they found themselves back in the Championship.
From a player’s point of view, he’s settled in Leeds and he’s there not to suffer from.
However, as explained, the club’s divisional position could still change shape this summer.
The Whites are said to value the player in the £35-£40 million bracket, although with a year left on his deal in the summer, that fee will be hard to come by.
At 26, Struijk is approaching his peak years, boasting nearly 200 appearances for Leeds across numerous promotions and top-flight battles. His reading of the game, ability to launch deep attacks, and occasional threat at set-pieces have garnered widespread praise.
As the season enters its final stages, the battle for Struijk’s signature could intensify, potentially shaping not only Leeds’ summer plan but also the strengthening of their visitors’ defence.
Leeds latest news: Pre-planned stalls; Bielsa’s message; Fear of Gnonto
Elsewhere, Leeds United suffered transfer headaches after a pre-planned summer deal fell through afterwards. The angry director vowed to walk away from the €8 million deal after becoming frustrated with his form.
In other news, an insider with professional knowledge at Leeds United has revealed popular Italian winger Wilfried Gnonto will continue to struggle for minutes under Farke’s “attritional” form. among fears he is one of four players who could be forced out this summer.
Meanwhile, Farke’s future as Leeds United manager has once again been called into serious doubt, with the former Premier League midfielder explaining why he could be sacked by chairman Paraag Marathe at the end of the season.
Another thing that Farke may have a problem with, to some extent, is the fact that he is nowhere near as respected as Marcelo Bielsa.
In the case of the former Whites boss, Leeds fans showed the Argentine an incredible display of emotion, while he also sent a heartfelt message to the club.
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